Part of a Catholic religious order that dates back to the 12th century, Carmelite nuns can be found in monasteries throughout the world, including one in Santa Clara, Calif. In fact, the Carmelite Monastery of Santa Clara recently celebrated its 90th year.
An order of cloistered discalced Carmelite nuns live in the Santa Clara monastery’s interior grounds, hidden away from the fast pace of Silicon Valley. As followers of St. Teresa of Avila, they cultivate humility as St. Teresa once did. The grounds are known for their tranquility and quiet, where the nuns take part in a contemplative life within 10 acres of gardens and a large olive grove protected by high walls and wrought-iron fencing.
Guests are invited to visit the timelessness hidden within the Carmelite Monastery’s walls. Strolling the grounds during visiting hours, one may quietly enjoy the shady pathways, secret garden, olive grove, rose arbor, and chapel. Exquisite detailing, from marble statues, intricate wall carvings, and numerous archways and pillars define the interior of the chapel.
The chapel has received both the Gold Medal of Excellence from the Institute of American Architects and the International Grand Prix at the Paris exhibition. The beautiful example of Spanish Renaissance-style architecture was built in 1917.
Author Jack London used this former ranch site as the start of his novel "The Call Of The Wild". Nearby is another related site, the Jamison-Brown house, on whose porch London wrote a good portion of the book!