San Giovanni del Calandrone Sanctuary, Catholic shrine in Merlino, Italy
San Giovanni del Calandrone Sanctuary is a small church located about 400 meters southeast of Merlino, surrounded by two L-shaped porticoes that frame a central courtyard with grass. The complex houses two ancient sarcophagi positioned beneath the covered walkways.
The sanctuary was first documented in 1261 when it belonged to the parish of Sant'Eufemia di Bariano, a medieval settlement that no longer exists. This early record establishes its long-standing importance in the region's religious life.
The sanctuary holds two ancient sarcophagi under its porticoes, with one partially covered sarcophagus allowing water to flow for devoted visitors to collect.
The sanctuary sits in open countryside away from built-up areas and can be reached by the Via San Giovanni road. Good footwear is recommended since the approach crosses through fields, and conditions vary with the seasons.
Beneath the porticoes sits a partially open sarcophagus from which water flows, venerated by visitors for its healing properties. This natural spring draws people seeking its reputed effects.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
