Santuario della Foresta, Catholic pilgrimage church in Rieti, Italy
The Santuario della Foresta is a pilgrimage sanctuary located in the forested mountains outside Rieti, where a clear stream flows through the valley. The structure blends older sections with later additions and houses artworks spanning different periods within its interior.
The site emerged during the Medieval period as a place of refuge near Rieti. A significant event occurred in 1225 when a prominent religious figure stayed here seeking medical care.
The sanctuary has long served as a refuge for those seeking healing, and this tradition of spiritual solace continues to shape how visitors experience the place today. People come to pray in the forest's quietness and feel connected to the pilgrims who came before them.
The site is accessible from Rieti via a forest path and welcomes visitors throughout the year. The best time to visit is during warmer months when the woods are green and the paths are dry.
An outdoor stone monument depicts a prominent figure with raised hands and commemorates the composition of sections of an important religious text at this location. This artistic memorial often goes unnoticed by many visitors and offers an interesting reason to look around.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.