Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio
Founded in 1288 on a hillside outside L’Aquila, this basilica is the architectural and spiritual heart of the city—the birthplace of the world’s first jubilee and the burial place of Pope Celestino V.
At a glance
The Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio stands as a masterwork of Abruzzese architecture and a national monument. Its distinctive side façade features a Holy Door, marking the site of the Perdonanza Celestiniana, an annual jubilee established in 1294. The church combines multiple architectural styles accumulated through centuries of rebuilding.
History
In 1288, Pietro da Morrone commissioned the basilica’s construction. Four years later, on 29 August 1294, he was crowned pope as Celestino V within its walls. That same year, he established the Bolla del Perdono (29 September 1294), creating the first jubilee in Christian history. From 1327 onwards, his body rested in the basilica, initially in a side chapel and later, from 1517, in a monumental mausoleum crafted by Girolamo da Vicenza, master sculptor to Andrea Palladio. The structure was designated a national monument in 1902.
What you see
The basilica displays a layered architectural vocabulary shaped by successive earthquakes and repairs. The Holy Door on the side façade remains its most distinctive feature, marking the entrance through which pilgrims process during the annual Perdonanza. Damage from the 2009 earthquake, which collapsed the dome, prompted extensive restoration work beginning in 2015, transforming the interior layout temporarily to allow worship to continue.
Cultural significance
This basilica embodies both spiritual and civic identity for L’Aquila. The Perdonanza Celestiniana remains one of the most important religious observances in the Catholic calendar, drawing pilgrims worldwide. As the setting of Celestino V’s coronation and the site of the world’s first jubilee, the basilica holds unique historical weight in Christian tradition.
Key facts
- Founded 1288; Celestino V crowned pope here 29 August 1294
- First jubilee (Perdonanza Celestiniana) established 29 September 1294
- Minor basilica title held jointly with San Bernardino and San Giuseppe Artigiano
- Mausoleum of Celestino V built by Girolamo da Vicenza (from 1517)
- Designated national monument 1902
- Address: Piazzale Collemaggio, 5, L’Aquila
- Phone: 0862 404167
- Website: basilicacollemaggio.it
Practical information
Following damage from the 2009 earthquake, the basilica underwent significant restoration. It reopened to the public after extended closure. Current opening hours and access conditions should be verified via the official website or by telephone before visiting.
Getting there
The basilica is located just outside L’Aquila’s city walls on Collemaggio hill. Public transport connects the city center to the basilica; confirm current routes with local transit authorities. Parking is available near Piazzale Collemaggio.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
See this place and what’s around it →Historical events at this place (2)
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