The Perdonanza in L’Aquila: UNESCO Heritage Festival of Faith and Culture

The Perdonanza Celestiniana is not just another Italian festival—it’s a UNESCO-recognized celebration of peace and forgiveness, rooted in centuries of tradition. Every year in L’Aquila, the medieval capital of Abruzzo, the streets come alive with torchlit processions, medieval parades, sacred rituals, and a communal sense of unity.

If you’ve ever wanted to step into history while experiencing a modern cultural treasure, the Perdonanza offers exactly that.

Origins of the Perdonanza

Celestine V and the Bull of Forgiveness

The story goes back to 1294, when Pope Celestine V—a humble hermit who became pope—issued a papal bull granting plenary indulgence to anyone who entered the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio in L’Aquila between August 28 and 29. This act, known as the “Bolla del Perdono,” was revolutionary: it offered forgiveness freely, without payment, unlike many indulgences of the era.

From Spiritual Act to Civic Festival

Over time, the ritual transformed into a grand civic and religious event. Citizens, pilgrims, and nobles alike began joining processions, carrying relics, and celebrating with music and theatre. Today, the tradition continues as the Perdonanza Celestiniana, symbolizing not only spiritual renewal but also civic pride and community identity.

The Festival Today

The Calendar of Events

The Perdonanza unfolds each year between August 28–29, but the celebrations often stretch across several days. Key highlights include:

• The Historical Parade: Over a thousand participants dressed in medieval costumes, with banners, trumpets, and flags waving through the streets.

• The Arrival of the Bolla del Perdono: The original parchment of Celestine V is carried in solemn procession.

• The Opening of the Holy Door: At the Basilica of Collemaggio, this ritual marks the start of indulgence, drawing thousands of faithful.

• Concerts and Cultural Performances: Music, theatre, and art exhibitions echo across L’Aquila’s piazzas and courtyards.

For the full cultural program, you can check the official city portal at https://turismoaq.it.

The Atmosphere in L’Aquila

During the Perdonanza, L’Aquila transforms into a living stage. Imagine cobblestone streets filled with the rhythm of drums, flickering torches lighting ancient stone walls, and families gathering over traditional Abruzzese meals. The air feels charged with both reverence and joy—like history and modernity walking hand in hand.

Not Everyone Knows

Even for Italians, there are aspects of the Perdonanza that remain hidden gems:

• The Forgiveness Walk: Many locals walk at night from the city center to the Basilica of Collemaggio in quiet reflection. Joining this silent procession gives the experience a deeper personal meaning.

• Neighborhood Banquets: Away from the main square, small communities host banquets with medieval-inspired recipes, welcoming curious travelers.

• Sacred Frescoes: Inside the Basilica of Collemaggio, behind less-visited chapels, you can still spot frescoes scarred yet preserved through earthquakes, silent witnesses of the centuries.

Why UNESCO Recognized the Festival

In 2019, UNESCO added the Perdonanza Celestiniana to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (https://ich.unesco.org). The recognition highlighted its universal message of peace, forgiveness, and community renewal.

For the people of L’Aquila, especially after the devastating 2009 earthquake, the Perdonanza became a symbol of resilience, binding together faith, history, and collective hope.

The Abruzzo Region’s official tourism site (https://www.regione.abruzzo.it) also emphasizes how the event ties deeply into local traditions while reaching a global audience.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• When to Visit: Arrive around August 27 to enjoy both the lead-up and the climax of the festival on the 28th–29th.

• Where to Stay: Central L’Aquila B&Bs and boutique hotels are best, but nearby villages offer peaceful alternatives.

• What to Eat: Try local specialties like arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers), saffron-infused dishes from Navelli, and the famous Sulmona confetti (sugar-coated almonds).

• How to Get There: From Rome, L’Aquila is about 1.5 hours by car or bus, making it perfect for a short getaway.

FAQ

What is the Perdonanza Celestiniana?

It’s a religious and cultural festival in L’Aquila, created by Pope Celestine V in 1294, offering indulgence to anyone who visits the Basilica of Collemaggio between August 28–29.

Why is it UNESCO-recognized?

In 2019, UNESCO declared it intangible cultural heritage for its unique blend of history, spirituality, and its universal message of peace and forgiveness.

When should I visit L’Aquila to see the festival?

The central events occur on August 28–29, but the city hosts cultural programs, concerts, and parades for several days around those dates.

Is the Perdonanza only for religious pilgrims?

Not at all. While its roots are Catholic, the Perdonanza is also a civic celebration filled with cultural, historical, and artistic experiences open to everyone.

What else can I see in L’Aquila?

Besides the festival, L’Aquila offers medieval churches, Renaissance fountains, lively piazzas, and nearby natural wonders like the Gran Sasso National Park.