San Giovanni Rotondo, a town located on the Gargano peninsula in the Apulia region, is not only a place of pilgrimage with deep spiritualbut also a gateway to the natural beauty and cultural treasures of southeastern Italy. This town is most associated with the life and legacy of St. Pius of Pietrelcina, one of the most important Catholic saints of the 20th century.
The legacy of Saint Pius
The main reason why San Giovanni Rotondo attracts millions of pilgrims from all over the world every year is Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, also known as Padre Pio. This Franciscan friar lived in the city from 1916 to 1968 and became famous for his stigmata, miraculous healings and profound spiritual wisdom.
His shrine, an ethereal modern basilica, is a masterpiece of modern sacred architecture. Designed by the famous Italian architect Renzo Piano, this modern structure is one of the largest sacred complexes in Italy. Completed in 2004, it is designed to accommodate up to 6,500 people inside and another 30,000 outside. It has a unique futuristic design with an arched roof resembling shells or waves and an interiordecorated with beautiful mosaics by Mark Ivan Rupnik, depicting moments from the life of a saint and biblical scenes. The modern design and spatial layout make this basilica a magnet for pilgrims and architecture lovers alike.
Near the basilica stands a monumental cross that towers over the landscape and can be seen from afar. This cross symbolizes the sacrifice and faith that are linked to the legacy of Padre Pio. There is also a modern bell tower near the basilica, which is part of the complex. The bell tower has a simple but impressive design that fits in with the futuristic style of the basilica. The ringing of these massive bells accompanies important liturgical events, masses and pilgrimage festivals. Their sound carries far and wide, giving the place a solemn and calming atmosphere.
Not far from the basilica is the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, where Padre Pio celebrated mass and confessed pilgrims. His intact body is on display in the convent chapel and is the object of pious veneration.
The hospital "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza"
One of Padre Pio's most important projects was the construction of the hospital Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza ("House of Relief in Suffering"), which opened in 1956. This modern medical institution provides state-of-the-art medical care and is a symbol of the union of science and the faithful's love of neighbour. Today, the hospital is one of the best medical facilities in Italy and further develops the saint's legacy of helping the suffering.
Nature and surroundings
San Giovanni Rotondo is not only a place of prayer, but also an ideal starting point for exploring the Gargano National Park. This park offers natural riches in the form of dense Foresta Umbra forests, steep estuaries, stunning beaches and traditional villages. Nearby is the pilgrimage site of Monte Sant'Angelo with the legendary shrine of the Archangel Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Gastronomy
A visit to Puglia would not be complete without sampling the regional cuisine. In San Giovanni Rotondo you can enjoy dishes such as orecchiette with tomato sauce, roasted aubergine and ricotta, fresh seafood or traditional sweets such as taralli dolci. The local olive oil and wines are a chapter in themselves and definitely worth a taste.
