This content was automatically translated. View the original text.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Platea in Ciciliano: the Votive Shrine That Became a Marian Sanctuary
The Sanctuary of the Madonna della Platea is located in Ciciliano, a village in the Aniene Valley standing at an altitude of 470 metres. The building was originally a votive shrine in the 15th century, built by local shepherds to protect a fresco of the Madonna and Child. The sacred image, now preserved on the high altar, was already venerated in the 15th century, and linked to accounts of blessings received. In 1630 the shrine was transformed into a chapel, then enlarged several times, until it became a sanctuary.
Layered Architecture
The present façade is from the 18th century, plain, with a stone portal and central window. The interior has a single nave with three side altars added in the 17th century. The coffered ceiling dates from the restoration of 1750, when the stucco work was also redone. The fresco of the Madonna, much deteriorated by time, has been repainted several times, but maintains traces of the original 15th-century composition.
The Festival and the Pilgrimage
Every year, on the last Sunday of August, the patronal festival is held, with a procession from the village to the sanctuary. It is a tradition documented since the 17th century. The sanctuary is open all year round, and can be reached on foot from the centre of Ciciliano in 10 minutes. From the square in front, the view opens onto the Aniene valley and the Simbruini Mountains. The place continues to be a pilgrimage destination for the inhabitants of neighbouring villages.
