Shrine of St. Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo

Sagrato S. Giovanni Paolo II San Giovanni Rotondo San Giovanni Rotondo

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Saint of the Confessional who bore the wounds of Christ

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Nestled in the serene hills of southern Italy, the town of San Giovanni Rotondo has become a beacon for pilgrims worldwide, drawn by the profound spiritual legacy of St. Padre Pio of Pietrelcina. This humble Capuchin friar, renowned for his deep piety, bore the stigmata—the wounds of Christ—for over five decades, offering his life as a testament to faith, suffering, and divine love.

Born Francesco Forgione in 1887, Padre Pio entered the Capuchin order at a young age and was ordained a priest in 1910. In 1916, he was assigned to the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in San Giovanni Rotondo, where he would remain until his death in 1968. Here, he became known for his extraordinary spiritual gifts, including bilocation, prophetic insight, and miraculous healings. Yet, it was his unwavering commitment to the confessional, often spending up to 16 hours a day, that underscored his mission: to reconcile souls with God.

Recognizing the physical and spiritual needs of the suffering, Padre Pio founded the Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza ("Home for the Relief of Suffering") in 1956, a hospital that continues to serve as a testament to his compassion and vision for holistic healing.

To accommodate the growing number of devotees, the Sanctuary of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina was constructed and inaugurated in 2004. Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, this modern basilica can seat up to 6,500 worshippers and stands adjacent to the original church where Padre Pio ministered. In 2010, his body was transferred to the crypt of the new sanctuary, allowing pilgrims to venerate the saint in a space that reflects the magnitude of his spiritual impact.

For those journeying during the Jubilee Year, San Giovanni Rotondo offers a profound encounter with a saint who lived the Gospel fully. As Padre Pio often advised, “Pray, hope, and don't worry.” His life continues to inspire countless souls to seek deeper communion with Christ through prayer, penance, and charity.