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Grotta di San Bonaventura (Grotto of Saint Bonaventure) in Bagnoregio: The Site of the Miraculous Healing
The Grotto of St Bonaventure is located in Bagnoregio, within the grounds of the church dedicated to the saint. According to tradition, it was here in 1221 that Giovanni Fidanza was born - the future Saint Bonaventure of Bagnoregio, Franciscan theologian and Doctor of the Church. Legend has it that as a child he was miraculously healed of a grave illness through the intercession of St Francis of Assisi who, upon bidding him farewell, exclaimed "Oh, what good fortune!". That blessing became his name.
The Grotto and the Church
The grotto is hewn from tufa rock, and remains to this day a destination for pilgrims. Above it stands the Church of Saint Bonaventure, rebuilt in the 17th century following the earthquake of 1695. The interior contains frescoes depicting episodes from the saint's life and a Baroque altar. Descending into the grotto, the dampness of the rock can be felt - the very place where, according to tradition, the miracle occurred.
Visitor Information
The church is situated in the historic centre, a short walk from the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas. It is open for liturgical celebrations and accessible to visitors. The grotto is tended by two sisters of the community Serve del Signore e della Vergine di Matará, dedicated to welcoming both tourists and the faithful. The feast of Saint Bonaventure is celebrated on 15 July.
