This content was automatically translated. View the original text.
Church of St Magnus in Colle San Magno: the faith of Ciociaria, Vanvitelli and the prophet hermit
The Church of San Magno is located in Colle San Magno, a village in the province of Frosinone. It was designed by Luigi Vanvitelli, the same architect that penned the design of the Royal Palace of Caserta. This place has some remarkable stories to tell, among them the tomb of the Eremita Buono (Good-hearted Hermit), a local ascetic who, according to tradition, prophesied the birth of St Thomas Aquinas, as well as the centuries-old Inchinata delle Madonne (Kiss of the Madonnas procession).
Vanvitelli’s project in the heart of the village
Construction began in 1750. The architect chose a Greek cross plan — a compact form that draws the eye towards the centre. The interior is sober yet bright. The design reflects the style of the Neapolitan late Baroque, imported here into the mountains of Ciociaria. Which is no small detail.
The Inchinata ritual on Monte Asprano
The church is also the beating heart of a deeply felt tradition. Every Easter Monday, the statue of the Madonna Addolorata (Our Lady of Sorrows) is carried in procession to the summit of Monte Asprano for the Inchinata, a symbolic encounter with the statue of the Madonna of Castrocielo. This ritual unites two communities and celebrates an ancient bond.
As an active parish church, access is guaranteed during liturgical celebrations. For visits outside service times, it is advisable to contact the Parish of Colle San Magno.
