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The Basilica of Our Lady of Collemaggio, situated just outside the historic centre of L'Aquila, is one of the finest examples of medieval church architecture in Abruzzo, and is a symbolic landmark of the city.
Construction began in 1288, by the Benedictine hermit Pietro da Morrone, who would later become Pope Celestine V. The papal coronation took place in this very church, on 29 August 1294.
The location chosen to build the basilica was itself significant: the hillside was once home to an ancient fortified settlement and a small church dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption. According to tradition, it was here that Pietro da Morrone had a vision of the Virgin Mary, who is said to have asked him to build a sanctuary in her name.
Stylistically, the building is the result of a harmonious fusion of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque elements, the product of centuries of alterations and restorations. The two-tone façade built from pink and white stone is one of the most characteristic aspects of the design, which is enhanced by three rose windows, with the central one particularly ornate. The interior is divided into two aisles and a nave, supported by octagonal pillars and pointed arches, and is decorated with frescoes narrating episodes from the life of Celestine V and depicting the Virgin and Saints.
An element of great spiritual importance is the Holy Door on the left side of the basilica. The door is closely linked to the Celestinian Plenary Indulgence, the first Jubilee of Christianity, instituted by Celestine V with the Bull of Pardon. On 28th and 29th August each year, thousands of pilgrims pass through this door to obtain forgiveness, in a rite that UNESCO has recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Inside the basilica there is also the mausoleum of Celestine V, built in 1517 by Girolamo da Vicenza, an artist who worked with Andrea Palladio. The tomb, located in the right apse, is one of the most visited spots in the complex.
Throughout its history, the basilica has suffered damage from earthquakes, particularly the one in 2009, which necessitated lengthy restoration and consolidation work, completed in 2017. In 2020 the restoration project was awarded the European Union Cultural Heritage Prize, in recognition of the building's historical and artistic value.
