Santuario di Fonte Colombo, Franciscan sanctuary in Rieti, Italy
This sanctuary sits on a hilltop at 600 meters elevation and contains multiple chapels, stone corridors, and a sacred cave surrounded by oak forest. The complex was built as a spiritual refuge for monks and pilgrims.
The founder of the Franciscan order composed the definitive Rule of his order here in 1223. During a stay in 1225, he also underwent an eye operation at this location.
Religious symbols and frescoes decorate the caves and chapels throughout the complex, visible to visitors today. These decorations reflect the spiritual meaning this place held for those who came here to pray.
The site is reachable on foot via a walking trail from Rieti through the surrounding forests. It is wise to wear comfortable shoes since the climb is steep and the ground can be uneven.
A Tau symbol remains preserved on an interior wall of the complex, possibly painted by the order's founder himself. This simple mark is often overlooked by visitors today, yet it represents a direct link to a historical figure.
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