Santuario  di  San  Francesco  di  Paola​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 11 January 2024
​​​Dating back to the 6th century, the Santuario di San Francesco di Paola is situated in the Province of Cosenza and belongs to the Comune of Paola. 

Places of interest nearby include the city of Paola, San Lucido, Marina di Fuscaldo, San Fili and Cosenza, while Lamezia Terme Airport is an hour and 4 minutes away by car.
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The Santuario di San Francesco di Paola, also known as the Sanctuary of Saint Francis of Paola, is a significant religious complex located in the town of Paola, Calabria, Italy. It is dedicated to Saint Francis of Paola, the founder of the Order of the Minims, and is an important pilgrimage site in Calabria.

The Santuario di San Francesco di Paola is situated on a hill overlooking the town of Paola and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The sanctuary complex comprises several buildings, with the main attraction being the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola. The basilica is an impressive structure with a beautiful facade and a large dome. Inside, visitors can admire religious artworks, frescoes, and statues dedicated to Saint Francis of Paola.

The sanctuary also includes a monastery where the Minim friars reside, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the monastic life and spirituality of the order.
History
The history of the Santuario di San Francesco di Paola dates back to the 15th century when Saint Francis of Paola, a revered Franciscan friar, founded the Order of the Minims. After his death in 1507, his tomb in Paola became a place of pilgrimage and devotion.

The sanctuary was later built to honor his memory and has since become a significant religious center in Calabria.
Key features and nearby attractions
  • Pilgrimage Site: The sanctuary is an active place of worship, and visitors can attend Mass and participate in religious ceremonies. Many pilgrims visit the sanctuary to pay their respects to Saint Francis of Paola and seek spiritual blessings.
  • Panoramic Views: The hilltop location offers stunning panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the surrounding Calabrian landscape.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for visitors, providing insights into the life of Saint Francis of Paola, the history of the sanctuary, and the religious significance of the site.
  • Calabrian Cuisine: The town of Paola is known for its delicious Calabrian cuisine, offering visitors the chance to savor local dishes and specialties.
  • Accessibility: The sanctuary can be reached by car or public transportation, and there are parking facilities available.
Santuario di San Francesco di Paola
Comune: Paola

Province: Cosenza

Region: Calabria

​Built: 16th century

Architectural style: Gothic

Fly to: ​​Lamezia Terme Airport - 1 hour 4 minutes (64 km)

​Close by: San Lucido, Marina di Fuscaldo, San Fili, Cosenza

​​​Recommended accommodation: Hotel Sant'Agostino (2 km)​

Santuario  di  San  Francesco  di  Paola​​  Gallery

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