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After the death of Padre Pio, the Saint’s friars thought of constructing a new church, because too sensitive to the material and spiritual needs of the devotees, that the existing church could not contain. After the presentation of several projects, Friars entrusted the design of a new church to the architect Renzo Piano, so that it could accommodate 6,500 people. For its size it is the second largest church in Italy, after St. Peter’s Church in Rome. Long dedicated to Santa Maria delle Grazie, the new Sanctuary conceived by Renzo Piano occupies – with its enormous conch-shell structure – and represents the second-largest church in Italy after Milan’s Duomo. Finally opened after ten years of construction, and also known as the Church of St. Pio, the new Sanctuary was almost entirely financed by the offerings of pilgrims. Today it can hold up to 6,500 people at once. San Giovanni Rotondo is famous all over the world as the native city of St. Pio (known as Padre Pio) of Pietrelcina, and as the city where the venerated monk worked his miracles. Pio was beatified in 2002.In the Capuchin Monastery Padre Pio received the stigmata in 1918, and there where all those supernatural events that led to his sainthood and canonization took place as well. Visiting this Monastery and viewing the chambers where St. Pio conducted his life means jumping into a context of spirituality and mysticism; it is a destination that the devout and tourists alike should make every effort to visit. The Church’s crypt also hosted, up until a few years ago, the tomb of St. Pio. Next to the Monastery rises the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This profound mixture of historic, religious and architectonic elements render the Sanctuaries of Padre Pio an indubitable point of interest for all, including those who are not particularly devout, or who may not profess any faith at all.
PRIVATE TOUR MINIMUM 2 PEOPLE
EXTRA PERSON €420,00
Includes:
- Pick-up and drop off with luxury transportation and private chauffeur
- Private tour leader at your disposal (choose the language on the checkout)
- Entrance in the Church of San Pio “Chiesa Grande”
- Visit of the cript which hosts the body of St. Pio
- Entrance in the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie
- Entrance ticket at St. Pio’s Museum
- Lunch (fixed menu)
Not Included:
- 22% vat tax
- Food or drinks choices made outside the fixed menu
- Gratuities. If you are satisfied with the service, a gratuity is customary.
NOTE:
- Please advice any specific dietary requirements or allergies at time of booking
More about this tour
Also known as the Capitanata or Daunia, the Province of Foggia marks the northern border of Apulia, near Molise and Campania. The eastern part is occupied by the promontory of Gargano, the "spur of the boot," and the beautiful Tremiti Islands, a favorite destination for the many visitors who every year choose an Apulian vacation. The numerous locations along the Adriatic coast offer many opportunities for fun and relaxation, especially for beach lovers and those interested in taking excursions through nature. But the charm of the hinterland is in no way inferior to the beauty of the seascape. The Tavoliere is the largest plain in the south of Italy, with its wide expanses of grain fields that shine in the summer sun and are interrupted only by the Dauni Mountains, at intervals covered with green woods. The colors, scents and sounds endow this landscape with its own particular charm. A land rich in history, archaeological excavations have uncovered its first signs of settlement, from imposing Medieval castles to a wealth of religious buildings. And, a genuine, artisan cuisine makes a trip to the Province of Foggia even more pleasant.
User Reviews & Comments
JMiller 26/11/21
This was a wonderful tour, well worth the money. Our guide, Deborah, both knowledgeable and passionate. Our small group was picked up on time and met at the entrance of the museum. The four-hour tour in the evening was exhausting, but exhilarating. Skipping lines is also a pleasure. I would highly recommend the RomeItalyExplora tour of the Vatican, particularly at night when there are fewer people.
Maggio 30, 2026
Jody_L 10/06/2023
This tour, thanks to the amazing and professional Tour Operator, Rome Italy Explora, and their knowledgeable and courteous Tour Guide, made this a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Maggio 28, 2026