5 of Abruzzo’s Must-See Religious Sites

​In Italy, Christianity is found not only in the Churches, but in the basic fabric of everyday life.  The architecture and art in every town, village and hamlet (no matter how big or small) is related to the Church. Most events are marked by religious recurrences, the majority of the fairs and festivals around the country are related to Christian saints.

There are numerous religious sites in Abruzzo that remind us of Italy’s religious roots. ​

 #1 Hermitage of San Domenico, Villalago
The Hermitage of San Domenico is located just outside the village of Villalago, on the Lake of San Domenico. According to tradition, in the 10th century, Saint Domenico dug the cave in which he lived as a hermit. Later, San Domenico’s retreat became a place of worship for many and a beautiful little church (chapel) was built as a tribute to him.  At the rear of the church, is a door to a steep, narrow staircase that leads to the dark cavern where San Domenico once slept. 
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#2 The Church of Santa Maria Assunta and the Oratory of San Pellegrino
Located in the hamlet of Bominaco is one of Abruzzo's best-kept secrets. It includes two very different churches and the remains of a castle. All belonging to a powerful monastery which was the seat of power in this area from the 8th century through to its rebellion and destruction in the 1400s. The church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its Romanesque architecture and the important frescoes, sits on the hill above the small hamlet. What is most remarkable are the stone columns inside, each one decorated with a different crown. 

The smaller chapel, often called the ‘Sistine Chapel of Abruzzo', is painted with the most wonderfully dramatic frescoes depicting the life of Jesus, which cover the walls and ceiling (Childhood, the Passion, and the Final Judgment).  Of particular interest are the frescoes that illustrate a monastic calendar on two opposite walls of the eastern part of the church.  These special places of worship were a stopping point for those who followed the path of a sheep track that passes through the area.
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#3 The Hermitage of Sant'Onofrio al Morrone 
The Hermitage of Sant'Onofrio al Morrone is a religious building  that has been a national monument since 1902. It is located on the slopes of the Morrone Mountain, near Sulmona dating back to the thirteenth century. It houses the memory of Pietro Angelerio (or Pietro da Morrone ), the hermit friar who lived there and who became pope in 1294 with the name of Celestino V – he later became a saint . 

The hermitage can be reached by a steep path.  It is an easy to walk, and leads from the hamlet of Badia to the eastern edge of the Peligna Valley up to the altitude of 620 meters.  Below this church there is an old Roman temple. The local villagers of the valley go here the day after Easter.  They walk from Pratola all the way up to the hermitage to pray and then to have a picnic.
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#4 Santuario del Volto Santo
The small town of Manoppello has recently come to fame as the home of the reported Veil of Veronica. Somewhat forgotten over the centuries, this is the cloth reportedly given to Jesus to wipe his face as he carried his cross to Calvary. Although it is not specifically mentioned in the Bible, it was a widespread belief that it existed.

In the basilica, behind the alter, you will find the image of the Holy Face (Volto Santo).  It is similar to the more famous Shroud of Turin. The image that appears is not painted on the surface, but is part of the cloth itself.  You are able to walk up to the framed Volto Santo which is surrounded by glass.
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#5 The Abbey of Santo Spirito al Morrone
The Abbey of Santo Spirito al Morrone is the most important and famous settlement of the Congregation of the Celestines as well as the center of cultural, religious and civil life.

This monumental complex, which occupies an area of ​​16,600 square meters, is located just 5 km from the center of Sulmona in Badia.  Its origins are linked to Pietro di Angelerio, Benedictine monk, and hermit, who was also founder of the Celestini order and Pope with the name of Celestino V. This complex has been used for numerous purposes since it was founded, one of which was a prison. 
 
Feast of Madonna della Libera
Every year in the month of May, an exciting religious event that takes place in Domenico’s hometown of Pratola Peligna called the Feast of Madonna Della Libera.

We invite you to join us for the Feast of Madonna Della Libera. This is a two-week-long event that starts with the novena (9 days of solemn prayers) and finishes with a celebration that the entire village takes part in. 

The program is divided between religious and civil events.  There are many processions through the streets along with the local band and the village priest.  On the non-religious side there are DJ’s and special concerts in the evenings with dancing and singing in the streets.  There are also special activities for children and a huge fireworks display.

On Friday, the pilgrims (young and old) begin a historic journey from Gioia Dei Marsi and walk for about 14 hours until they reach the village of Pratola. All of the village awaits the pilgrims’ arrival.  The people wait at the entrance to the village (the priest, the people, and the band) walk with them to the church.  As the pilgrims arrive, they sing the song of the Madonna Della Libera. The pilgrims proceed onto their knees for the last 50 meters to the church alter where they kiss the painting of the Madonna.  The pilgrims stay for the weekend to celebrate with the town and then return to Gioia Dei Marsi on Sunday. 

These are just a few of the many celebrations that tie religion to everyday life in our beautiful region of Abruzzo… come visit us and experience some or all for yourself!