Acqua Viva
Leṇa Pāda
A Buddhist Forest Monastery right outside Bari
How far have we come?
Thanks to your generosity, we have reached more than half of our fundraising goal! A zero-interest loan allowed us to purchase the land, securing a monastic presence in Puglia. Every donation brings us one step closer to making this project a reality.
The Project
Acqua Viva Leṇa Pāda is a spiritual initiative rooted in the principles of a gift economy and reciprocal aid. Situated within the Sant’Elia forest of Acquaviva delle Fonti, the site will host monastic dwellings alongside a contemplative retreat center, provided solely through Dana (donations). In partnership with local entities, Empty Cloud Italia will develop sustainability workshops, reforestation projects, and educational programs for youth.
The site extends over 35 hectares in the countryside, nestled in the lower Murgia plateau amidst grain fields, olive trees, and vineyards. The territory is served by the international airports of Bari and Brindisi. Additionally, Acqua Viva is located directly on the Apulian Aqueduct trail, a prominent pedestrian and cycling route.
Economy of Generosity
All Empty Cloud Italia programs are offered free of charge, based on voluntary donations, in the spirit of Buddhist generosity.
Forest Monastery
The Sant’Elia forest will be dedicated to the monastic contemplative practice of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs (male and female monks)
Meditation Retreat Centre
"Spiritual teachings will be offered periodically at a retreat center, where food and lodging are provided on a donation basis
Vegetarian Cooking
Shared vegetarian meals, highlighting the simple, traditional cooking of the local region alongside Oriental culinary traditions
Buddhist Meditation
The center will provide weekly programs dedicated to study, meditation, and mindfulness, aimed at the cultivation of heart and mind
SPIRITUAL ISLAND
A spiritual oasis open to the public will rise within the ACQUA VIVA center. This space will host regular contemplative retreats, seminars, and workshops focused on sustainability and organic agriculture, offered through the spirit of open generosity.
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Diversity, Culture and Tradition
From seniors to children, everyone is welcome at ACQUA VIVA.
We aim to rediscover the local heritage by promoting intergenerational dialogue to preserve tradition, while fostering an open exchange with different cultures and spiritual perspectives.
Synergies and Oppotunities
Archeology
Restoring, researching, and rediscovering the ancient archaeological heritage of the Sant’Elia cave.
