Santa Maria di Collemaggio
Abruzzo
Santa Maria di Collemaggio is a medieval basilica located in L'Aquila, central Italy, renowned for its unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Founded by Pietro da Morrone, later Pope Celestine V, the church is historically significant as the site of the first Papal Jubilee, the "Celestinian Forgiveness," established in 1294. The basilica's exterior is notable for its striking pattern of alternating pink and white stone blocks, creating a jewel-box effect, while the interior is more austere with a nave flanked by two aisles and a tall wooden ceiling. The church houses the tomb of Pope Celestine V, whose relics were translated there in 1327, and features an octagonal belfry and three distinct rose windows. Despite suffering damage from multiple earthquakes, including the collapse of its dome in 1461 and significant damage in the 2009 earthquake, the basilica was restored and reopened in 2017. It remains a major pilgrimage site and symbol of L'Aquila, hosting the annual Perdonanza Celestiniana, a celebration recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their visit outside of major religious festivities for a quieter experience. Booking in advance is recommended for group visits or attending mass to avoid overcrowding. The annual Perdonanza Celestiniana in late August draws many pilgrims and is a unique cultural event worth experiencing. The basilica offers extended opening hours in summer months and shorter hours in winter. Discounts may be available for groups and pilgrims.
Interesting facts
- •The Perdonanza Celestiniana, established here in 1294, is considered the first Holy Year in history and inspired the Roman Jubilee.
- •The basilica's facade features a unique pattern of alternating pink and white stone blocks, creating a striking visual effect.
- •Pope Celestine V, buried here, was crowned in this church and is the only pope to have resigned voluntarily.
- •The basilica was declared a national monument in 1902 and received a European cultural heritage award in 2020 after restoration.
- •The Holy Door on the side facade is one of the earliest examples of such a door, predating the famous Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.
History
The basilica was founded in 1287 by the Celestine monks after Pietro da Morrone, later Pope Celestine V, had a vision instructing him to build a church on Colle di Maggio.
Consecrated in 1289, it became the site where Pietro was crowned pope in 1294, instituting the first plenary pardon of sins, the precursor to the Papal Jubilee.
The church was embellished over the centuries, especially after Celestine's canonization in 1313 and the translation of his relics in 1327.
It suffered significant damage from earthquakes, notably the collapse of its dome in 1461 and damage in 2009, but was restored and reopened in 2017.
Place Guide
Facade and Main Portals13th-15th century
The Romanesque facade is adorned with contrasting pink and white stone arranged in cruciform patterns. It features three distinct portals, each with round arches and rose windows, with the central door reworked in the 15th century decorated with floral motifs.
Interior Nave and Aisles13th century
The basilica's interior comprises a large nave flanked by two side aisles separated by rows of columns supporting arches and a tall wooden ceiling. The floor uses the same red and white stone as the facade, maintaining stylistic continuity.
Tomb of Pope Celestine V1517
Located inside the basilica, the mausoleum of Pope Celestine V was created in 1517 by Girolamo da Vicenza, a master of Andrea Palladio. It houses the relics of the pope who founded the church and established the Perdonanza Celestiniana.
Colonnaded Cloister and FountainMedieval period
The basilica includes a cloister with colonnades and a central fountain, typical of Italian monastic architecture, offering a peaceful space for reflection and prayer.
