L’Aquila and the Perdonanza Celestiniana

Since 1294, the Celestinian Perdonanza has been the key event in the city of L’Aquila and involves a large part of its province, following the traditional route of the “Path of Forgiveness”. The route begins at the Celestinian Hermitage of Sant’Onofrio, on the slopes of Mount Morrone near Sulmona, and passes through numerous villages before ending, after 80 km, in the centre of L’Aquila.

Around 1,000 local people in historical costumes bring the “Procession” to life. Three are the main figures: the “Lady of the Bull”, the “Young Lord” and the “Lady of the Cross”, symbolising the traditional values of the celebration: hospitality, solidarity and peace.

The ritual public reading of the historic Bull of Celestine by the Mayor of L’Aquila precedes the opening of the Holy Door of the Basilica of Collemaggio. The celebration ends with the closing of the Door, the procession escorting the Bull back to the Town Hall, and the extinguishing of the ceremonial brazier in the historic centre.

A rich programme of cultural events and performances completes the religious ceremonies.