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The Church of Sant'Adamo in Cantalupo: the story of the Blessed who reattached a mule's leg
Just a short distance from Cantalupo in Sabina, nestled in the greenery, stands the Church of Sant'Adamo (St Adam). This 13th-century Romanesque building is tied to the figure of Blessed Adamo, an Augustinian hermit venerated in the area. His fame stems from a singular legend, one that speaks of compassion and a miracle.
The legend of the healed mule
Popular tradition recounts that one day, while helping a cart driver, Adamo was struck by a kick from a mule. The driver, furious, cut the animal's leg clean off. But the hermit, once he had recovered, did something unthinkable: he picked up the limb and reattached it, healing the mule on the spot.
What to see today in the small parish church
Inside, the atmosphere is intimate and contemplative. In the apse, among the saints depicted in frescoes beside the Coronation of the Virgin, Blessed Adamo can be seen holding the mule's leg, in memory of the miracle. The real surprise, however, lies on the walls. For centuries, a layer of whitewash protected 15th-century frescoes that have only been uncovered in recent times. These are votive offerings from the faithful, featuring figures such as the Madonna del Latte (Virgin Nursing the Child) and St Sebastian.
The church is located along Via Sant'Adamo, just outside the village. Entry is free, and it is almost always open during daylight hours. To find out the exact times of services, it is advisable to enquire at the local parish.
