L’Aquila Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio: a treasure of the Abruzzo region
The Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio in L’Aquila is one of the most iconic symbols of the Abruzzo region. Overlooking a landscape of mountains and valleys, L’Aquila, the regional capital, combines medieval elegance with modern resilience. Founded in the 13th century by the inhabitants of nearby villages and strengthened by Emperor Frederick II, the city quickly became an important religious and cultural centre in Italy.
Among its treasures, the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio is a masterpiece of Romanesque-Gothic art, deeply connected to Italy’s spiritual history.
A basilica born from a dream and a divine vision
The history of the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio dates back to 1287, when Pietro da Morrone, a hermit who became Pope under the name Celestine V, decided to build a church there following an apparition of the Virgin Mary in a dream.
This basilica, where he was crowned Pope in 1294, remains today a major site of spirituality, symbolising humility and peace.
Every year, at the end of August, the Perdonanza Celestiniana attracts thousands of pilgrims. This jubilee, established by Celestine V, is recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, reflecting the site’s profound religious and communal significance.
A masterpiece of medieval architecture in the Abruzzo region
The façade of the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio in L’Aquila stands out for its stunning interplay of pink and white marble, forming refined geometric patterns typical of the local Romanesque-Gothic style. Three richly carved portals lead into a majestic nave, where an atmosphere of serenity and contemplation prevails.
Inside, the medieval frescoes and decorative details reflect the artistic influence of the Abruzzo region during the Middle Ages. The crypt houses the relics of Celestine V, canonised in 1313, a symbolic figure of simplicity and faith.
Despite the earthquakes that struck L’Aquila, particularly the one in 2009, the basilica was restored with remarkable care and reopened to the public in 2017, regaining all its original splendour.
Visiting L’Aquila and the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio
Address: Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, Via Collemaggio, 67100 L’Aquila, Abruzzo, Italy.
Opening hours: open daily, with extended hours during the summer season. Admission is free; guided tours are available to explore the history and symbolism of the site in greater depth.
Access: located about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Rome (A24) and 1 hour and 15 minutes from Pescara (A25). The basilica is just a few minutes’ walk from the historic centre, starting from Piazza Duomo.
L’Aquila: between spirituality, art, and local flavours
Visiting L’Aquila and the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio means immersing yourself in a world where art, faith, and nature blend harmoniously. The city also charms visitors with its authentic gastronomy:
scrippelle ‘mbusse, thin crepes served in a fragrant broth,
the pecorino cheese from Abruzzo, with an intense flavour,
arrosticini, small grilled lamb skewers, perfect for a friendly meal after the visit.
When it comes to wine, treat yourself to a Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC, a full-bodied and warm red, or a Trebbiano d’Abruzzo DOC, lighter and more floral. These specialties perfectly round off a day of cultural and spiritual discovery.
Why discover L’Aquila and the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio?
To admire one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in the Abruzzo region.
To experience the Perdonanza Celestiniana, a ritual inscribed on the UNESCO list.
To feel the unique atmosphere of a city rebuilt with pride after the trials of time.
And to discover a living spiritual heritage, in the heart of a region where natural beauty meets faith.
