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The Codex Gigas (the Devil’s Bible) open to the portrait of the devil.
monks

Codex Gigas: Who Drew the Devil in This Massive Medieval Bible?

The Codex Gigas, also known as the Devil’s Bible, is the largest medieval manuscript still in existence—with an even bigger legend behind it.
The Podcast Team July 15, 2025
Zhengzhou, China

Shaolin Monastery

The real Buddhist temple where the fictional Kwai Chang Kaine (David Carradine) trained in TV's 'Kung Fu' series.
Kamp-Lintfort, Germany

Kloster Kamp

This Cistercian monastery was the first in the German-speaking world
Patmos, Greece

Rock of Kalikatsou

A Christian pilgrimage site that may have also been a temple for the Greek goddess of love.
Tokyo, Japan

Inari Soba Mansei

This 400-year-old noodle joint was once frequented by a fox-turned-monk, according to local folklore.
Beijing, China

White Cloud Temple

First established in 741, this is one of the oldest Taoist temples in China.
The Black Madonna of Einsiedeln inspired tiny, edible imitations.
monks

Why Swiss Christians Once Nibbled on the Mother of Christ

Schabmadonnen are part of a long tradition of edible relics.
Emma Cieslik September 4, 2024
Newburgh, Scotland

Lindores Abbey Distillery

One of the youngest whisky distilleries in Scotland may also be the country’s oldest.
Görlitz, Germany

The Klötzelmönch's Worried Mother Statue

This bust remembers the haunting local legend of a murderous monk.
Yokohama, Japan

Taya Caves

A network of ancient tunnels and vaulted chambers with mystical Buddhist reliefs, built for ascetic training.
Takasaki, Japan

Yamanoue Stele and Tumulus

The oldest surviving stele in Japan is a personal dedication from a monk to his late mother.
Durham, England

Finchale Priory

The former "holiday home" for monks at the Durham Cathedral.
Prague, Czechia

Emmaus Monastery

A quasi-futuristic roof sits atop a medieval Bohemian monastery damaged during World War II.
The square tower of La Mare de Déu del Toro.
Es Mercadal, Spain

Shrine of La Mare de Déu del Toro

The highest point of this Balearic island is home to a historic monastery.
monks

Podcast: Thomas Merton’s Hermitage

This little house in Kentucky is where the famous rebel monk tried to get away from the world.
The Podcast Team February 23, 2023
The main monastery building.
Subiaco, Italy

Sacro Speco di San Benedetto

This monastery set over a holy cave contains the oldest known painting of Saint Francis of Assisi.
monks

At a Festival in Bhutan, Some Dancers Bare All to Ward Off Evil Spirits

One of the many traditional dances at the annual Jambay Lhakhang Drup involves performers in masks—and nothing else.
Erika Fatland January 11, 2023
Losel dolls on display at the museum.
Sidhpur, India

Losel Doll Museum

The art and tradition of Tibetan costumes are preserved through these dolls made by Buddhist monks.