In the western part of the inhabited centre of San Giovanni Rotondo, there are two churches dedicated to Santa Maria delle Grazie. The small convent complex, of 1540, which includes the most ancient church, is the place where Father Pio lived from 4th September 1916 to 23rd September 1968, the date of his death.
In the smallest church, consecrated in 1629, a beautiful icon of the Madonna delle Grazie is preserved. Due to the increasing number of devotees who attended the religious celebrations, a bigger church, also dedicated to Santa Maria delle Grazie, was built next to the ancient church. In the crypt, built under the complex, is the grave of the friar from Pietralcina, who was sanctified in 2002.
St. Mary of the Graces and the Capuchin Monastery - San Giovanni Rotondo
A Brief History:
Not to be missed:
For those who go on a pilgrimage to San Giovanni Rotondo an important stop is the Father Pio’s cell, in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Not only for devotion, but also in order to admire the fantastic landscape, it is recommended to climb up the monumental stairs of the Via Crucis, built by Francesco Messina.
Events:
Religious and civil celebrations are heartfelt and vividly lived in San Giovanni Rotondo. On 15th August, in the historical centre, the Virgins’ clothing ceremony takes place. The main celebrations are held on 8th, 9th and 10th September, on the occasion of Madonna delle Grazie. The ritual consists of moving the Virgin’s painting, usually located in the minor church of the Capuchin friars’ convent, to the Chiesa Matrice during the three days’ celebration.
Sources: By the editorial staff Updated on: 15/07/2010
Project created in collaboration with InnovaPuglia.
Regione Puglia
Regione Puglia