Benedictine monks lived in monastries in Italy. They took vows of poverty, silence, chastitsy, and obedience. They were forbidden to own property, leave the monastary, or become involved with society. The monks spent their time praying, reading/writing histories and religious texts, and working on their craft. They often sold the crafts they produced, such as wine, caskets, and vestments.
Franciscan friars lived in friaries in Italy. They took vows of poverty, chastitsy, and obedience. They were forbidden to own property and had to live on what people gave them. They spent their time travelling, attending to the poor and the sick, preaching, and praying. They were encouraged to live among the people that they served. The friars were supportive of church reform. Many Catholic traditions come from the friars, like the Stations of the Cross and the nativity.
