The Santuario della Madonna di Filetta is also known as Santa Maria dell’Ascensione Sanctuary. The church was built in the 15th century in response to a miraculous event. It stands in the Rochetta suburb of Amatrice.
I originally wrote this page long before the terrible earthquakes of 2016 and 2017 destroyed most of the center of Amatrice. Although the structure itself fortunately survived, many of the works of art have been damaged.
Santuario della Madonna di Filetta Amatrice
Useful information
The address of the Santuario della Madonna di Filetta is Località Rocchetta (Amatrice).
History and description
The miracle that was to lead to the foundation of the church took place in 1472. The shepherdess Chiara Valente accidentally found a cameo with the image of the Madonna on Ascension Day of that year. Since then, a procession has taken place every year on this day, starting in Amatrice itself and ending at the Madonna di Filetta Church. The Madonna di Filetta has since become the patron saint of the town.
The church has a rather austere facade. The portal has a pointed arch. The beautiful bell tower consists of a double bell gable.
What to see
The interior is painted with frescoes. Pier Paolo da Fermo painted the apse with a detailed procession to the Santuario itself. There are also paintings by local artist Dionisio Cappelli.