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Sanctuary of the Most Holy Trinity: a place of worship carved into the rock at Vallepietra
In Vallepietra, in the heart of the Simbruini Mountains, an immense rock face shelters an ancient place of worship. The Sanctuary of the Most Holy Trinity stands 1,337 metres above sea level on the Colle della Tagliata. This church is a sacred space that grew around a mysterious fresco that appeared in a cave, drawing pilgrims for centuries.
The fresco of the Three Persons
The fresco of the Trinity is a 12th-century work of clear Byzantine inspiration. It depicts the three divine Persons seated side by side, each holding a book and offering a blessing in the Greek manner — with thumb and ring finger joined. It is a detail that does not go unnoticed. Below, a Latin inscription explains its meaning: "In these Three Persons we believe in the Lord."
Faith and legend
Popular tradition has it that it all began with a farmer, whose oxen fell off the cliff, only to be found unharmed right in front of the cave bearing the sacred image. Even today, to reach the sanctuary, visitors must descend steps carved into the rock, as if retracing that miraculous fall. It is a living place.
The sanctuary is generally open from May to October, though opening hours may vary. Entry is free. It can be reached from Vallepietra via a paved road or by following the pilgrimage trails that traverse the mountains.
