The body of Saint Rita is preserved in a glass sarcophagus located in the Chapel of the Saint within the lower crypt.
The sanctuary complex encompasses the medieval monastery where Saint Rita spent the final four decades of her life.
Ferruccio Ferrazzi's fresco work inside the dome is considered one of the largest modern religious artistic cycles in Italy.
The basilica was elevated to the status of a minor basilica by Pope Pius XII in 1955.
Saint Rita is known as the 'Saint of the Impossible' and the 'Peacemaker' in Catholic tradition.
The rose is the primary symbol of Saint Rita, and the grounds often feature fresh rose displays in accordance with her legends.
The site survived the 1979 and 2016 central Italy earthquakes, which caused significant damage to other regional heritage sites.
The Basilica of Santa Rita da Cascia is a modern pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Rita, housing her incorrupt body in a glass reliquary within the crypt. Construction of the current basilica was completed in 1947 after an earlier project began in 1937. The interior features extensive frescoes by Ferruccio Ferrazzi and Adalberto Migliorati that depict the life and miracles of the Saint. The complex includes a monastery where Saint Rita lived for forty years, as well as a more modern pilgrimage hall. The basilica serves as a central hub for the Augustinian community in the Umbria region. Its architectural design emphasizes a cross-shaped layout and integrates modern artistic expression with traditional devotional spaces.
From the terrace outside the basilica entrance, looking over the town of Cascia and the surrounding Umbrian hills.
Visit the adjacent monastery museum to view relics and historical artifacts related to the Saint's daily life.
Walk up to the Sanctuary of the Rose, located on the hill above the basilica, for a panoramic view of the Cascia valley.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the complex involves navigating stairs between the upper basilica and the lower crypt.
Avoid planning a visit during the anniversary of the Saint's death in late May if you dislike massive crowds, as the town becomes very busy with pilgrims.
Modest dress covering shoulders and knees is strictly required for entry into the basilica; keep silence in the crypt.
