Grotta di San Filippo Benizi, Religious chapel in Bagni San Filippo, Italy

The Grotta di San Filippo Benizi is a small chapel carved into a large travertine rock formation in Bagni San Filippo, nestled at the foot of a thermal spring area. The natural stone creates the vault overhead, and two walls enclose the ends of the structure.

Saint Philip Benizi arrived at this location in 1269 to spend three months in seclusion after learning of his potential nomination as successor to the pope. This episode established the site as a spiritual refuge in local tradition.

The oratory is still well preserved and holds a black wooden bust of Saint Philip above the altar, along with devotional objects. Devotion to the saint is celebrated on 22 and 23 August. The cave takes its name from Philip Benizi, prior general of the Servants of Mary, who according to tradition hid on Monte Amiata in 1269 after refusing election as pope.

The oratory is reached on foot in Bagni San Filippo, in the travertine area below the thermal springs of Fosso Bianco. The interior is split in two by a partition, with the altar and the black wooden bust of Saint Philip in one part. Devotions in his honour take place on 22 and 23 August.

Local legend tells that the thermal waters of Bagni San Filippo emerged when the saint struck his staff against the grotto rock. This origin story remains deeply connected to how visitors understand the springs today.