Monastery of St. Benedict (Shrine of the Sacred Speco)

Set in the rock of Mount Taleo, in a "swallow's nest" position overlooking the Aniene Valley, this huge shrine was erected in the 11th century around the Sacro Speco, or the cave where St. Benedict of Norcia lived as a hermit for three years in the 6th century before founding the Sublacensis monasteries. The structure is composed of many rooms, the result of numerous modifications that have taken place over time: two overlapping churches and small chapels, sometimes also carved into the rock. It also boasts splendid frescoes from different eras that are well preserved, including one depicting St. Francis of Assisi, which is believed to be the earliest - and also the most faithful - depiction of the saint.

Opening times

Morning:

• 9:00 am - 12:30 pm (last admission: 12:00 pm)

Attention. On Sunday mornings a part of the sanctuary is closed to the public to allow for the proper conduct of church services.

Afternoons:

• 2/11 to 31/03: 3:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. (last entry: 5:00 p.m.)
• 01/04 to 1/11: 3 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. (last entry: 6 p.m.)

From 2020, entrances are restricted and the sanctuary can be accessed only by staff on duty.

Price:

free