カストロチェーロ周辺のアトラクション＆必見スポット - トップ20

The statue does not depict Padre Pio, but rather Saint Folco Pellegrino, the town's patron saint. Saint Folco was an English hermit who lived in the 7th century. He arrived in Italy and lived in the area surrounding Santopadre, so much so that the town owes its current name to him: from "Castro Forolo" to "Santopadre," as a sign of devotion. The statue depicts Saint Folco in religious robes, with a welcoming and blessing attitude, right in the town's scenic square. Saint Folco is venerated on May 22nd and is central to the local community, which also houses his relics in the parish church. The statue commemorates his memory and protection, and is a place of prayer and tribute from the residents, as evidenced by the flowers that often adorn it. The square is an excellent vantage point for observing the Melfa Valley and the surrounding Mainarde mountains.

"Death is not the end, but only a very specific end: namely, the end of a first, provisional period of life and the beginning of a never-ending new epoch. Jesus said, 'My kingdom is not of this world.' Therefore, there is another world. Not only his disciples, but also his opponents believed in this other world. The doctor of the law, for example, asks him what he must do 'to gain eternal life.' (...) Precisely because it lasts forever, this life is so precious that everything... of the present world pales in comparison." (Text by Albino Luciani / Pope John Paul I)

It is the destination of the evocative Cammino di San Benedetto which leads from his hometown of Norcia to the abbey of Montecassino which houses his tomb, passing through Subiaco where the Saint lived for a long time and where the monastery of Santa Scolastica and that of the Sacro Speco are located.

Beautiful road closed to traffic that follows the Melfa gorges along the path of San Benedetto

Climb that requires training, about 9km at 5/6% average gradient, but the view you see during the climb is worth the effort. Unfortunately they do not allow bikes in and currently there are no parking spaces for bikes, but you can take some photos.

Montecassino Abbey

Unfortunately I have to inform you that 2 days ago I tried to take the road starting from Roccasecca but in the first km the road is closed by several gates in succession and while the first two can easily be opened and passed, the third gate is almost impassable because it is on a small bridge that would require you to climb over the parapet. Maybe even passing this gate you will encounter others. More updates are welcome from anyone who has them, because I would really like to try again.

Magnificent road closed to traffic due to rockfall... it is passable by bike but be careful