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Blessed Nunzio Sulprizio Sanctuary: An Oasis of Faith and Miracles in Pescosansonesco

The Sanctuary dedicated to Blessed Nunzio Sulprizio stands majestically at the highest point of Pescosansonesco, an Abruzzese village nestled in the rock. This sacred place encompasses the miraculous spring of Riparossa, where Blessed Nunzio found relief for his wounds. His story is an example of unwavering faith and Christian charity, continuing to attract pilgrims and faithful from everywhere.

A Sanctuary Hidden in the Rock

The sanctuary’s architecture is unique: the rock itself becomes an integral part of the church, serving as the backdrop to the altar. The internal hexagonal hall, with its spacious and solemn spaces, invites prayer and reflection. From the outside, the building almost seems detached from the mountainous context, but upon closer inspection, one perceives the architect’s intention to harmonize with the natural profile of the mountain.

History and Devotion: Blessed Nunzio Sulprizio

Nunzio Sulprizio (1817-1836), born in Pescosansonesco, had a life marked by suffering. Orphaned at a young age and in poor health, he was raised by his uncle, who unfortunately exploited him in hard labor. A neglected wound on his foot degenerated into gangrene. To alleviate the pain, Nunzio often went to the Riparossa spring to wash his wounds. His unshakable faith and dedication to prayer, despite his sufferings, made him an example of Christian virtue. He died at just 19 years old in Naples, where he had been taken for treatment.

The Relics and the Statue of the Blessed

The gilded bronze statue, depicting the sleeping Blessed, contains the saint’s relics inside. Before 1965, the year of the relics’ translation, a painting of the young Nunzio was carried in procession. Today, the statue is a destination for pilgrimages and a place of intense prayer.

The Journey of the Relics:

Nunzio Sulprizio’s body underwent several translations before arriving in Pescosansonesco:

• Initial burial in the church of San Sebastiano in Naples.
• Transfer to the church of San Michele a Portalba in 1874.
• Translation to the Church of Maria Avvocata in 1936, on the centenary of his death.
• In 1965, the Archbishop of Naples donated a portion of the relics to the Bishop of Pescara-Penne, who placed them in the statue at the Riparossa sanctuary.

A Treasure of Ex-Votos: Testimonies of Received Graces

The sanctuary houses a rich collection of ex-votos: inscribed tablets, goldsmith objects, prosthetics, photographs, and other items that testify to the graces received through the intercession of Blessed Nunzio. These objects represent a tangible sign of the faithful’s faith and devotion.

Recognized Miracles:

Two miracles, officially recognized by a decree of John XXIII in 1963, testify to the power of Blessed Nunzio Sulprizio’s intercession.

Among the ex-votos are:

• Tablets or plaques with inscriptions
• Goldsmith objects
• Actual or represented prosthetics
• Various objects
• Photographs

A Place of Research and Spirituality: Adventures in Faith

A visit to the Blessed Nunzio Sulprizio Sanctuary can be enriching both spiritually and culturally. Beyond prayer and contemplation, it is possible to:

• Explore the Riparossa spring: Follow in the footsteps of young Nunzio and immerse yourself in the untouched nature surrounding the spring.
• Admire the sanctuary’s unique architecture: Discover how the rock merges with the sacred building, creating a suggestive atmosphere.
• Delve into the history of Blessed Nunzio: Read the testimonies of miracles and learn about the life of this young saint.
• Experience authentic faith: Participate in religious celebrations and share devotion with other pilgrims.

Useful Information for the Visit

Plenary Indulgence:

During the Jubilee Year of 2000, a plenary indulgence was granted to pilgrims of the sanctuary.

Diocesan Seat:

The diocesan seat of Penne was transferred to Pescara in 1949, taking the name of the diocese Pescara-Penne.

Chiesa, 91, 65020 Pescosansonesco Vecchio PE, Italy