Holy Cross Abbey

Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you. 
--Saint Augustine (354-430) Theologian and Bishop.

The Holy Cross Abbey in Cañon City was build in 1924 and once housed 90 Benedictine monks. This beautiful gothic revival monastery is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. In addition to the monastery, the Abbey also included a boy's preparatory high school.

Although it faced difficult times financially during the Depression, the Abbey flourished and expanded to include dormitories, a gymnasium, classroom buildings, student union/dining hall and an administration building. At one point 250 boys were enrolled in the school. But diminishing enrollment led to the school's eventual closing in 1985. The monastery continued to operate until 2005. Soon after, the 200 acre property was sold to an investment group for $11 million. Today the property is used for weddings, conferences, meetings, banquets, retreats, reunions, car shows, expos, and other events. The Cañon City Balloon Classic is held on the grounds each May.

The winery, begun by the monks, continues today. The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey produces award winning wines and their tasting room is open seven days a week.