This is an excellent way to spend a quiet day. The grounds are beautiful and so peaceful. There are a number of different chapels on the property, each constructed with different materials and architecture. Some of the marble has come all the way from Greece. The traditional Greek chapel on the hill has amazing views. Entrance is free and the gift shop has plenty for the religious and tourist alike. The only drawback is that you have to dress appropriately-ankle length skirt, long sleeves, head scarf, socks and shoes for women. They do have a large collection of clothes if you dont plan ahead.

Very amazing place. One of the best Monastery I have seen in all of the world. Tremendous work to all!

Beautiful place, highly recommended. My favorite place

Upon my arrival I was greeted by a kind gentleman who pointed me to the tour area (just a few steps away). The tour guide kindly checked my attire to ensure I was presentable (veil, long dress, covered top, and covered shoes), then she handed me a map as she explained the self tour.Theres a cute little cafe outside the entrance, and the gift shop had some baked, homegrown goods, as well as holy memorabilia.Next time I go, I want to be better prepared with more prayer. As my first visit there I was amazed by the beauty of the chapels and the monks at prayer and work.

A must see. Beautiful grounds and beautiful chapels. A place to reflect. Many monks on grounds to answer questions. Highly recommend.

It’s amazing to me that the poor reviews are from people upset that they have to follow a dress code clearly set on their website. I wonder if these people would have such issues of strangers showed up at their home and didn’t follow the rules. The monastery is the monks home that they have graciously opened to pilgrims who want to come to pray or to learn more about Orthodoxy. They don’t have to let anyone in, they’ve CHOSEN to. Most people become monastics for the solitude, so they can become close to God without distractions. I feel bad for them having to deal with the public as much as they do out of obedience to their Abbott. Have a little respect as you approach their home and realize that many monasteries in other countries don’t even allow the public on their grounds. This is a rare and once in a lifetime experience for many people. Appreciate it. Smh.

Its funny to me that Im even rating St. Anthonys Orthodox Christian Monastery. Theres no amount of stars in the solar system that can even remotely come close to the amount of stars needed to accurately rank St. Anthonys. For, If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee... ️ If you read this, please pray for me, because Im lost without my Savior. Thank you.

What an amazing and spiritual experience I had at this Oasis in the middle of the Arizona desert. The beautiful meticulously clean grounds immediately force you to relax and lead you on your spiritual journey. The quietness and beauty just soak into your body. The monastery has 5 beautiful churches on the grounds surrounded by lushes palm trees and jasmine flowers and agave plants. Quiet morning walks took me around the grounds to contemplate and pray. The monastery has a strict schedule for meals and prayer services which you are expected to attend all and on time. The guest rooms are separated from men and women which makes sense. You will be sharing a room with other devotes-orthodox pilgrims and you will meet amazing people from different parts of the U S and Greece and other countries. Pack your bags and go.

Just the old school as I was taught in school church and functions...No added fanfare!! Visiting the grounds is a big MUST.

This location is the 2nd most visited tourist attraction in Arizona after the Grand Canyon. Many call this a Desert Oasis or Heaven on Earth because of its peacefulness and wonderful sense of closeness to God.

It is beautiful there and the Greek cathedrals were something to see. It is like an oasis in the desert.

Peaceful, beautiful oasis in the desert. Amazing architecture and gardens. Theres a massive fountain at the front that the bees come to for a drink. I really enjoyed just watching them get a nice cool drink of water then fly off. The relics are beautiful, the mosaics, the icons, just amazing. And they have information to read about each of the chapels. I would highly recommend a visit here. Read up on the dress code before visiting, but if you dont have your own garments to meet the code, they have some that you can borrow at the front.

Heaven on Earth!! Every time we go there we must stay at list one night.. everything is so peaceful. It’s a MUST see!

My favorite place in this world! Guests are welcome to visit for a day or longer, with a blessing from the abbot. Guests are required to honor the dress code since we are entering their world - long sleeved shirts for everyone, pants for men and long skirts with head scarves for women. If you plan to stay overnight, you should plan on attending the night vigil. Beautiful monastery and people.

GOOD MORNINGS me Name is Milovan Djilas Im living betwin Me Mom Mirjana please Pray for me and Mom Mirjana .Me and me Mom living in City of Phoenix Arizona ih havet New Address us 844 East Bell Rood Apartman number is 1035 PHOENIX Arizona 85022 Apartment Name is BellRidge !Me and Mom Mirjana want came in visit next week Im hope so! Thanks so much for help and Good day and Good weekend?Super Cosmo CRAZY!

I loved it. I believe anyone who lives or visis AZ, should see this location. Very quiet and clean. They are modest about their dress, so be mindful of that. Men and women should be in loose fitted clothing, from head to toes. Womens head must be covered. Besides that, it is about 1.5 hrs drive from Phoenix.

Very rude people. They were upset the way we were dressed . There was only one guy with a kind heart trying to explain to us the rules and the other guys kept cutting him off and telling us we need to leave. I know why I left the Orthodox Church 17 years ago.

Really cool place! The details they put into everything is amazing!

WoW a work in progress, just like us .. quiet historic ... Meaningful .. a must see .. men no hats .. women bring head shawl and ankle length skirt .. that have loners but bring your own enjoy the time there..

It felt like being transported to a different world. Before you write more, be mindful of what you are wearing. Women prior to visiting should wear long skirts till their feet and long sleeved shirts. Also carry a scarf to cover your head. If you are not dressed appropriately, you will be offered shirts and skirts.There is one church and 4 chapels in the compound. The place is very spiritual and peaceful. There are a lot of palm trees and a few fountains which truly makes this place a desert Oasis.

Attention to detail in construction and grounds is amazing. This is a beautiful and serene place to spend the better part of a day

Gorgeous place and Im not religious but being here humbles you. Also, if youre going to pick fruit from any tree be sure a father blesses it first. And if you want to pick pinecones off the ground, do them a favor and pick them up

We attended services in Greek. The Male and females sit separately. You must wear the proper attire, but they will help you with extra clothes. They are very welcoming. The book store has great treasures. It is very peaceful.

Truly special place. Father Cosmas is amazing.

Very peaceful. Feel the presence of people dedicated to God.Allows contemplation and prayer at many different sites. Everyone is so helpful and respectful. Great place to let out your most inner thoughts, regrets, and confessions. The sense of forgiveness flows freely.

A rare and beautiful oasis in the middle of the Sonoran Desert, this monastery boasts a half dozen different and beautiful chapels, displaying gorgeous architectural detail and design, as well as ornate and exquisite artifacts on the interiors. The ground are a well manicured and diverse garden of paved bordered walkways, fountains, and arches. Stunning place, where I took 200+ photos. Highly recommended!

A holy place for my tired heart! ️

One of my favorite places on Earth. I try to visit every year at least once, usually in Bright Week. So many joyous memories made every visit.

We were not dressed appropriately and they provided clothing

Beautiful architecture and polished landscaping. Its a lovely visit with a unique cultural experience. Please be advised men need to wear long sleeves and pants. Women need to wear long skirts, a long sleeve shirt (cartigans or sweaters that dont button or zip up fully dont count) and a scarf over their head. The volunteers at the entrance are very helpful and will borrow you clothing if need be.

The most amazing place Paradise in the middle of the desert

Visited here with my son for him to get extra credit. Never heard of it before then. They do request that you follow their dress rules with the men wearing long sleeves and long pants and women a long dress and I believe a scarf or maybe some other head covering. Kind of warm in the middle of summer in Arizona.Not a huge place , maybe give yourself an hour for a self guided tour. Most of the stuff was brought over from Greece. Have a bookstore where you can buy water and souvenirs if you want to

The most amazing monastery in USA.

What a wonderful, beautiful and spiritual place to spend a Sunday afternoon and experience the grace and beauty of the monastery in the desert. Gorgeous grounds.

I have been visiting this Monastery since 1997. This place was the tipping point in converting to the Orthodox faith. The grounds are truly an Oasis in the Desert. A must see for those who want to discover the Ancient Church left by the Apostles of Christ.

The bells of orthodoxy sound in the middle of this blessed desert!

Fantastic. I love this place. It is beautiful!!!

One of the most amazing places you will ever visit in the Arizona desert. A true oasis

The buildings are beautiful. The grounds spectacular. You can tell that much thought and care went into designing and creating this campus. Very peaceful experience.

Very spiritual place Monks are helpful and has great food for sale at welcome center

Life changing experience. Monks are very hospitable and the blessings of Elder Ephraim resonate throughout the monastery. May his blessing be with us and May his memory be eternal for everything he did for us here in North America.

It is a great place to find peace and quiet and to enjoy the beautiful and biblical icons as well as the craftsmanship of the various Chapels. A place of Spiritual serenity and beauty.

Magical place.

Love this Holly Place,this is our second home

Beautiful! Restorative! Spiritual! Loved this!!

Beautiful and peaceful visit!

This was an amazing day trip from Phoenix. About an hour and a half drive. Once we arrived we had a very good day. The Monastery and its grounds are beautiful. There is staff to assist with direction and questions you may have. Some visitors spend a day or two and all are welcome. I believe overnight accommodations are to be arraigned prior to arrival. There is also a gift shop so you may purchase a memento to remember your trip.

This is where an experience of true monasticism exists in these dark days so people can find some rest from everyday life problems and fuel their souls

Fantastic place in the middle of desert you have to go there,you ll remember that experience in all your life

Beautiful place! Peaceful and serene...transports you to to a simpler life (in Greece).

It is truly Heaven on earth!! BLESSED BE OUR GOD!!!

Amazing place.

Very reverent & peaceful place

Good place. I spent a week and I would do it again.

One of the greatest spiritual experiences! It worths coming here!

A peaceful and beautiful spiritual oasis where people come from all over the world to pray, receive spiritual council, and refresh.

Nice place to visit if your in the area . The monks are quiet and they keep to themselves. I wouldnt say that they are that friendly.

Its worth every mile geting there.. Very beautiful monastery.. I would give 10 stars

We spent a bit more than a day at the monastery. We received a warm welcome and felt great during our stay. Nightly services start at 1:30am, and are in Greek. Outside the main services the Fathers offer spiritual guidance in both English and Greek languages. You can call in advance and hire a driver to get you there from Sky Harbor airport, and back when you return.

Beautiful place!! Please know ladies you will need to cover up. They have long skirts, blouses and scarfs for you to use.It is very peaceful and beautiful. They also ask that you take no photos of any of the people there, out of respect to them

Visit. You wont regret it. Spiritual, peaceful, beautiful. Keep in mind, there is a dress code- dont show up in shorts, mini skirts, womens hair must be covered. Advance notice to abbot is required, if you are staying overnight or longer.

Wonderful place. Visit it while they still have Elder Ephraim, a living saint, among them.

Go spend some time there. Even if youre not religious, it is very inspiring.Buy olive oil and bread; they are exceptional.

It’s a divine place ! Peace of heaven on earth! The service is whit Angeles ! feels like !

This is an oasis in the desert. Beautiful buildings and gardens.

Just a beautiful place.

Great place of peace. If you just need to get away this is the place.

Clean,beautiful,holy spirit in there

We that place. Is very unique and very relaxing saint place!We will be back, soo.!

If you are looking for orthodox spiritual guidance you should visit

Super! Really this is the place to find the inner peace and heaven beauty!

I wouldnt rate it as a tourist attraction. This is a secluded, peaceful, beautiful place for those who need a break in their life and who want a sip of genuine spirituality.

Isnt one beautiful place in Florence,Az. I liked here and came back every time with pleasure...

I would have given it a 3.5 if it was available. It was an interesting stop. This is a self-guided tour that kept my attention. I would have paid for a guided tour just to have someone to ask questions to.

Convert to Orthodox and go. Very different experience if you are Orthodox. If not Orthodox they have excellent book store and world class gardens. There are examples of churches of the Orthodox faith in the different gardens. Well worth the trip.

Wow - simply put, this place is amazing! I highly recommend staying for a few days and joining in all of the services. Also, take the opportunity to work alongside the monks and get a better understanding of this holy place and its inhabitants. Beware, you may not want to leave...

Biggest Orthodox Christian monastery in the western hemisphere. This monastery follows Athonite rules laid down ~1000 years ago. Open and very welcoming to tourists 11am-2pm. Dress code is every thing covered but the face & hands (if female) or head and hands (if male). The bookstore provides clothes for visitors as needed. If you are Orthodox highly recommend staying for a few days; contact the guest master using the provided number.

This is a must see! If you ever wondered what the Garden of Eden might have looked like this is at-least a start. We have been here many times. Last time we were there I think they open at 10:00am(?) and close around prayer time which is 2pm(?)

Beautiful landscaping, like stepping into a different world, but the sold old deserts

Beautiful and peaceful experience. Kind and helpful stewards

Its my home away from home, love being there, needs to be expirienced by everyone

One of the best greek orthodox monastery in north America. I love it.

Having never known of this place, I truly loved walking the area. The grounds are stunning and chapels breathtaking.

Christianity first religion. Also - I was not sure I wanted to share this but -On a hot day, I walked through the palm trees, watched the sun light break through the palm trees and then I felt a chill on my shoulder. I thought someone was behind me ?Walk with Christ.

The Gardens here are absolutely beautiful, extremely relaxing to just sit for a while and listen to Nature.

Peaceful, clean and a wonderful setting.

Will go back very nice place place

Such a peaceful walk through the grounds. Greek or Romanian design chapels amid lush gardens. An oasis in the middle of the desert. Weve been several times. Dress code, check website.

It is heaven on earth. A must-see for everyone. Non-Orthodox are just as welcome as Orthodox.

Was so peaceful and relaxing. Beautiful gardens n buildings, it was unbelievable. Truly a remarkable place. I would recommend for people to go and see it at least once and take family and guests.

Let the favor of the LORD our God be upon us,and prosper for us the work of our hands.Psalm 90:17Being Greek and a builder of my own blessed home,the monks are amazing builders and all around craftsmanship in all blessed works.Just awesome!

Spiritual and Aesthetic Oasis in the Middle of the Desert. This place will touch your heart and will appeal to all of your human senses. You can find yourself in 12th century Greece, like the Time has stopped... You will visit Russia, Romania, and Serbia, represented by beautiful churches. Your mind will relax from soothing sounds of a dozen waterfalls, the smell of blooming flowers, and greenery of olive gardens... You will want to stay here.

Where Grace Abounds... Beautiful, serene, hospitable... The self guided tour of these beautiful grounds is well worth the hour or so it takes to peruse the rich architecture of the many on-site churches depicting Greek, Byzantine, Russian and Romanian styles as well as the lush gardens which serve as a backdrop, a true oasis in the desert!

This is a must visit for anyone visiting Tucson. Its absolutely incredible.

Very nice place to see

Very spiritual, highly recommend monastery. Enjoyed allot

Inspired and magnificent Icons.

Very nice grounds and good Fathers and Sisters, thank you so much

Still cant believe this place exists in the middle of the desert here. It is absolutely beautiful and the gift shop is full of amazing things made at the monastery. Dont expect the residents and caretakers to be overly friendly.

Very scenic place and beautiful