Pope Celestine V, the founder, is one of the few popes to voluntarily abdicate his position, doing so only months after his coronation in this church.
The Perdonanza Celestiniana was established by a papal bull in 1294, granting a plenary indulgence to anyone who visits the basilica on specific dates.
The facade's checkerboard pattern was specifically designed to reflect the colors of L'Aquila’s heraldry.
The Holy Door, located on the side of the church, is opened exclusively for the annual Perdonanza celebration.
The basilica's restoration utilized innovative seismic isolation techniques to protect the masonry from future tremors.
The architectural design reflects a fusion of Cistercian and local Abruzzese gothic influences.
The interior contains a cycle of frescoes depicting the life of Saint Celestine V.
The Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio is a Romanesque-Gothic church founded in 1288 by Pietro da Morrone, who was crowned Pope Celestine V within its walls in 1294. The structure features a distinctive facade of white and pink limestone blocks arranged in a geometric, checkerboard pattern. It serves as the site of the Perdonanza Celestiniana, the world's first Holy Door jubilee, recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The interior houses the Mausoleum of Pope Celestine V, where his remains have been interred since his death. Following the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake, the basilica underwent an extensive restoration process completed in 2017 to address significant structural damage. The nave retains its historical architectural character, while the north portal preserves 14th-century artistic carvings. The church sits on a plateau overlooking the city, serving as a primary spiritual landmark of the Abruzzo region.
From the expansive lawn of the Parco del Sole, capturing the full width of the facade against the sky.
Walk around the exterior to view the meticulously restored Holy Door.
Check the local calendar to see if your visit coincides with the Perdonanza Celestiniana festival in August.
Take time to examine the intricate carvings on the rose windows.
Avoid touching the delicate frescoes or the stone carvings on the facade.
Maintain a quiet, respectful tone; keep shoulders and knees covered as per standard church protocol.
