Monasteries, with their ancient walls and secluded locations, provide a perfect backdrop for horror films. This collection delves into the dark secrets and supernatural occurrences within these sacred spaces, offering viewers a blend of historical settings with modern frights. Whether you're a fan of psychological horror or prefer jump scares, these films will immerse you in the eerie atmosphere of monastic life gone awry.

The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005)
Description: Although primarily about an exorcism, the film features scenes in a monastery where the exorcism rites are studied, adding a monastic element to the horror.
Fact: The film was loosely based on the real-life case of Anneliese Michel, whose exorcism was performed by priests.


The Nun II (2023)
Description: A sequel to "The Nun," this film continues the story of Sister Irene as she battles the demonic nun Valak in another haunted monastery setting.
Fact: The film expands on the mythology of Valak, deepening the lore established in the first film.


The Rite (2011)
Description: A skeptical seminary student travels to Italy to study exorcism, encountering a real case in a monastery, making it a fitting entry for this list.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist" by Matt Baglio.


The Haunting in Connecticut 2: Ghosts of Georgia (2013)
Description: While not directly about a monastery, it features a family moving into a haunted house with a dark history involving a nearby monastery.
Fact: The film was marketed as a sequel, but it tells an entirely different story from the first film.


The Monk (2011)
Description: Based on Matthew Lewis's gothic novel, this film follows a monk's descent into sin, set in a Spanish monastery, making it a compelling addition to this list.
Fact: The film was adapted from a novel published in 1796, showcasing one of the earliest examples of Gothic horror.


The Other Side of the Door (2016)
Description: While not exclusively set in a monastery, it involves a mother who opens a door to the afterlife, leading to supernatural events in an Indian monastery.
Fact: The film was shot in India, providing an exotic backdrop to the horror elements.


The Possession of Hannah Grace (2018)
Description: While not set in a monastery, the film's morgue setting and the backstory involving a failed exorcism give it a monastic horror vibe.
Fact: The film was originally titled "The Heretic" during production.


The Nun (2018)
Description: This film explores the origins of the demonic nun from "The Conjuring" series, set in a Romanian monastery with a dark past. It's included for its chilling portrayal of monastic horror.
Fact: The film was shot in Romania, adding authenticity to its setting. The character of Valak was inspired by a real-life demonic entity from the Warrens' case files.


The Devil's Doorway (2018)
Description: Set in 1960s Ireland, this film follows two priests investigating a miracle at a convent, only to uncover something far more sinister.
Fact: The movie was filmed in an actual abandoned Magdalene laundry, enhancing the eerie atmosphere.


The Vatican Tapes (2015)
Description: This film involves a young woman possessed by a demon, with scenes set in Vatican archives and a monastery, exploring the battle between good and evil.
Fact: The film was produced by Lionsgate and was initially slated for a direct-to-video release.
