The Padre Pio Shrine in San Giovanni Rotondo, Southern Italy, is a renowned Catholic pilgrimage site attracting approximately seven million pilgrims annually. Visitors come to the historic Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, which was dedicated in 1676, to pay their respects to Padre Pio, an esteemed Italian saint who passed away there 40 years ago.
Who Was Padre Pio?
Arriving at the Capuchin monastery in San Giovanni Rotondo in 1916, Padre Pio resided there for 52 years until his death in 1968. Beyond his deep devotion to God, he was celebrated for his compassion towards the sick and was believed to have supernatural abilities. He was canonized as a saint in 2002.
In April 2008, Padre Pio’s body was exhumed and displayed in a glass coffin at Santa Maria delle Grazie sanctuary, allowing the faithful to view it in the church’s crypt.
Visiting Padre Pio Shrine
The Padre Pio Shrine is open daily and admission is currently free, although donations are welcomed. Visitors can explore significant areas including where Padre Pio celebrated mass, his personal cell containing some of his belongings, and the Sala San Francesco where he welcomed the faithful. A gift shop and a pilgrim’s office are also available, providing English-speaking assistance and guides to the shrine.
In response to the large crowds of pilgrims, the striking Padre Pio Pilgrimage Church was completed in 2004, designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano. The church accommodates up to 6,500 seated worshippers and 30,000 standing outside, hosting daily masses not only in the new church but also in Santa Maria delle Grazie. Additionally, a modern Way of the Cross, known as Via Crucis, can be found on the hillside overlooking the church.
Each year, on September 23, a commemoration of Padre Pio occurs, featuring a torchlight procession alongside various religious ceremonies in San Giovanni Rotondo. This event typically includes hundreds of stalls selling religious items, contributing to the festive atmosphere for several days surrounding the commemoration.
Hotels
San Giovanni Rotondo features a compact center filled with restaurants, shops, and hotels. The increasing number of visitors has prompted the development of various new hotels in or around the town.
- Le Terrazze sul Gargano is a 3-star hotel that is conveniently located within walking distance of the shrine and offers terraces and a restaurant.
- La Solaria is another 3-star hotel situated near the shrine, featuring a restaurant and private parking.
- Hotel Leon, a fairly new and well-rated 3-star hotel, is located outside the center and provides shuttle services to the shrine, approximately 2km away.
- Bed and Breakfast Santa Lucia is an economical option located by the bus stop from Foggia and is within walking distance of the sanctuary.
Transportation
San Giovanni Rotondo is located 180 miles east of Rome, positioned on the Gargano Promontory within the Puglia region of southern Italy. The nearest airport is in Bari, approximately 90 miles away.
The Foggia train station, a major hub, is served by several main rail lines, with frequent buses connecting it to San Giovanni Rotondo in about 40 minutes. Alternatively, the smaller San Severo train station is closer and is accessible with weekday bus connections. Local bus services link the sanctuary with other areas of town.
