L’Aquila’s Perdonanza: Seven Centuries of Forgiveness and Resilience

At the end of August in L’Aquila, the bells peal for a jubilation that has gone on for over seven-hundred years — the Perdonanza Celestiniana, a religious and civic ritual in which the city welcomes with open arms anyone who desires for Absolute Forgiveness.

The Story:
In the year 1294, new Pope Celestine V issued a stunning papal bull announcing a “plenary indulgence” for everybody who came in true repentance to the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio on August 28th–29th. That was revolutionary — previously, such indulgences had been reserved for the city of Rome or special jubilees for pilgrims. Celestine's boon to L’Aquila returned annually, withstanding political upheavals, earthquakes, and even papal politics of the centuries.

Cultural Significance:
Declared by UNESCO in 2019, the Perdonanza is one of the world's oldest, uninterrupted religious festivals of its kind. It is a festival of peace, of reconciliation, of openness, and attracts pilgrims not only throughout Italy but even from over the world. It is, for the residents of L’Aquila as well, an embodiment of resilience — particularly after the devastating earthquake of 2009, when the event served as the call for the revival of the city.

Traces Today:
The event launches with a historical medieval costume parade, the bringing of the papal bull in a special reliquary, and the ceremonial opening of the Holy Door of Collemaggio. Accompanying the religious ceremonies are concerts, theater, and works of art filling the city with a mix of religiosity and culture. Guests can participate in processions, masses, or merely soak up the ambiance in the candlelit basilica.

Conclusion:
The Perdonanza Celestiniana is not only a festival but also an annual reminder to reflect, renew, and come together. Forgiveness in L’Aquila is not only given but celebrated in the very epicenter of society.