Holy Trinity Monastery: A Sanctuary of Spiritual Reflection in St. David
- sierravistalive
- May 11
- 2 min read
Updated: May 30
Nestled on 150 acres just off Highway 80 in St. David, Arizona, the Holy Trinity Monastery offers visitors a peaceful refuge steeped in history, faith, and natural beauty. Established in 1974 by Benedictine monks from Siena, Italy, the monastery followed the Olivetan tradition and was initially comprised of a single building. Over the decades, the site expanded to include a number of retreat and community buildings, welcoming spiritual seekers from across Arizona.
Though the monastery itself was formally dissolved in 2017, its legacy continues through the HTM Center, a non-profit charity now overseen by President Francesco Neri and Vice President Alfonso dell’Orso. Today, the Center serves as a vibrant retreat facility, open to group and private retreats, conferences, workshops, classes, and weddings. A number of buildings remain in active use, serving both religious and non-religious groups who seek a tranquil setting for reflection and renewal.
One of the crown jewels of the property is the adobe-style Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, built in 1974 and dedicated in 1981. This architectural gem is surrounded by a serene meditation garden and an outdoor Stations of the Cross path. The chapel’s interior features a unique combination of locally sourced materials, Italian imports, and religious artifacts from the founding monastery in Pecos, New Mexico. Pictorial tiles depicting historic Christian imagery adorn the sides of the chapel, lending a timeless spiritual atmosphere.
Beyond its religious structures, it is also home to several artesian-fed ponds, a library, an auditorium, and beautifully landscaped grounds. A standout feature is the Trinity Wild Bird Sanctuary, a 1.3-mile trail that winds along the San Pedro River. The trail allows visitors to explore the property’s rich ecological surroundings and is home to numerous bird species. Spirit Lake, one of the largest ponds on the property, sits peacefully at the heart of the sanctuary, encircled by a walking path with benches for quiet contemplation.
Each year, the Center welcomes students from Italy for an immersive English language program that combines classroom learning with cultural experiences, including trips to the Grand Canyon and New York City. These visits reflect the ongoing international connection that began with the monastery’s Italian roots.
Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., the Holy Trinity Monastery Center continues to be a cherished destination for those seeking spiritual reflection, natural beauty, or a peaceful retreat from everyday life. Whether walking the bird sanctuary trail or praying in the historic chapel, visitors to HTM are met with a deep sense of tranquility that endures long after they leave.
Holy Trinity Monastery
1605 S St Marys Way
St David, AZ 85630
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