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The Oratory of St Roch in Norma: a small 18th-century church, a place of faith and popular celebration
The Oratory of San Rocco is located in Norma, in the province of Latina. Built by the Confraternity of San Rocco on top of an older structure — of which the small Romanesque portal remains — it is a place where history and popular devotion have been intertwined for over three centuries. It can be reached via the Stairway of San Rocco, which alone is worth the walk.
A century-long construction site
Work first began in 1703 and was completed in 1713. However, the space proved to be too small. In 1821, the Confraternity decided to enlarge it, adding two side altars to the main one, dedicated to the Saint. The wooden statue of St Roch probably arrived during the epidemic of 1837. According to a local tradition, it was carved in Cori, the neighbouring town.
Restorations and transformations
Several interventions over the years — the most recent in the early 2000s — have significantly changed its original appearance. Little remains of the 18th-century oratory, but the small Romanesque portal from the earlier building is still visible.
The feast of 15 August
The highlight is the solemn procession on 15 August, followed by a week of celebrations. In the morning, the "Recalata" takes place in Piazza della Chiesa — an event that no one in Norma would miss.
