The Sanctuary of St. Francis of Paola is a tribute to the town’s celebrated 15th-century saint and friar. Famed for founding the Order of Minims, St. Francis of Paola is the region’s patron saint and a significant figure in Calabria. Learn the history of St. Francis and the monastery he created. Wander the cloisters and find a beautiful old church, a garden and a bell tower. Trace the path of ancient pilgrims and learn about the miraculous events reported to have taken place on this site.
Etched into the hillside above Paola, the Sanctuary of St. Francis of Paola has retained a sense of seclusion and tranquility despite the modern developments on the town’s seafront. Stroll through the large piazza that fronts the sanctuary and take in views of the hilltop above. You’ll see the main façade of the 15th-century temple.
Step through the impressive portal to find a series of gravestones dating between the 16th and 20th centuries, as well as the preserved vestibule of a ancient church that contains a modest nave with four chapels. Explore the final chapel, a mesmerizing example of Baroque splendor, to find the sacred relics of St. Francis of Paola.
Outside the church is a viewpoint overlooking the river and the monastery next door. Wander into the cloister and find the exquisite rose garden hidden behind tall stone walls. On the walls are frescoes depicting scenes from the saint’s life.
Return to the main piazza to find a second door leading to a modern church and a pretty fountain, known as Cucchiarella. Near the fountain, see an iron bomb on display. Allied forces dropped the bomb on civilians taking shelter in the sanctuary during World War II, but remarkably it did not explode.
The Sanctuary of St. Francis of Paola is located north of the historic center of Paola. Reach the sanctuary in less than 10 minutes by car. It is about a 30-minute walk from the town center and is open daily for free. Donations are welcome. Mass and other services are held daily.