Hermitage of Sant'Onofrio al Morrone, 13th-century religious hermitage in Sulmona, Italy.
The Hermitage of Sant'Onofrio al Morrone is a 13th-century religious sanctuary built into a rock face in Sulmona, stretching across three levels. The structure includes covered walkways, monastic cells, a prayer room, and a terrace overlooking the Peligna Valley.
The sanctuary was founded in the 13th century and is closely connected to Pietro da Morrone, who later became Pope Celestine V. In 1294, he received news of his papal selection while meditating in a cave at this location.
The site is connected to Saint Onofrio, a figure in Christian tradition rooted in these rocks. The cells on the upper floor show how monks lived and prayed in this isolated setting.
The walk from the parking area to the hermitage takes about twenty minutes uphill, so wear sturdy shoes and allow extra time for the climb. Check opening hours at the Sulmona tourist office before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Visitors at this location maintain an ancient ritual by touching the rock walls in hopes of healing and blessing. The surrounding grounds also yield medicinal herbs and plants that have been gathered by the faithful and monks for centuries.
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