The Sanctuary of Saint Francis of Paola in Spezzano della Sila, in the province of Cosenza, is the third convent built by the Saint after Paola and Paterno Calabro. It was the local population who strongly desired the presence of Saint Francis in Spezzano. He himself chose the location for the Convent, which he dedicated to the Holy Trinity, and oversaw the construction work until its opening around 1474.
The original structure was modified several times due to earthquakes that partially destroyed it. However, the portal that welcomes faithful and tourists at the entrance is ancient and dates back to the first structure of the Sanctuary. The interior, with a single nave, is characterized by Baroque architectural elements, interspersed with paintings that narrate the life of the Saint and the Church itself.
At the center of the wooden ceiling, there is a painting depicting the most important moment in the life of Saint Francis of Paola: the moment when Saint Michael shows him the "Charitas" emblem, making him understand the dimension of his vocation. Not eremitic, as he thought, he dedicated the rest of his life to evangelization and caring for the poor.
Near the altar, there are statues of Saint Michael, protector of the Minims order, and the full figure of Saint Francis of Paola, as well as the processional statue, the wooden bust, carried in procession during the solemn celebrations held on the third Sunday of September.
During each celebration, the words of the Saint are reread, the greatest gift that Saint Francis addressed to the community of Spezzano: the letter in which he invites peace, concord, attention to the needy, and Christian commitment to life.
Opening days and hours of the Sanctuary:
Sunday and holidays 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM / 3:30 PM - 7:00 PM (in summer 4:30 PM - 8:00 PM)
To book a guided tour:
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Other places to explore:
- La Nave della Sila
- Cupone Visitor Center - Sila National Park
- Florense Abbey of San Giovanni in Fiore
