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Sanctuary of San Tommaso in Formis: An Oasis of Faith in the Heart of Rome

Immersed in Rome’s millennia-old history, the Sanctuary of San Tommaso in Formis represents a place of profound spirituality and a testament to Christian charity. Its history, intertwined with the lives of saints like Saint John of Matha and, according to tradition, Saint Francis of Assisi, offers visitors a unique experience of faith and discovery.

History and Foundation: At the Roots of Trinitarian Devotion

Contrary to what is often reported, the church and monastery of San Tommaso in Formis were not founded by Innocent III. Historical documents, such as the “Descriptio sanctuarii Sancte Lateranensis Ecclesie,” attest to their existence as early as between 1073 and 1118. This discovery takes us back in time, offering a fascinating glimpse into the historical context in which the monastic complex originated.

Around 1209, a crucial moment marked the destiny of San Tommaso in Formis: John of Matha, founder of the Order of Trinitarians, established his residence there. He transformed part of the monastery and the ancient cisterns into a hospital dedicated to welcoming and caring for pilgrims and the sick. This gesture fully embodied the charitable spirit of the order, devoted to the redemption of slaves and the assistance of the needy.

Saint John of Matha: A Saint of Charity and Redemption

Saint John of Matha spent the last years of his life in the monastery attached to the church, passing away on December 17, 1213. His dedication to the poor and the sick, combined with his deep faith, made him a revered figure in medieval Rome. Initially, his remains rested in a marble mausoleum inside the church, a destination for pilgrimages and prayers.

A mysterious and adventurous event marked the history of the saint’s relics: in 1655, two Trinitarian brothers stole the body of Saint John of Matha and transported it to Madrid, where it is still venerated today. This bold action, likely driven by the desire to preserve the relics during a period of decline for the Roman sanctuary, adds an element of intrigue and adventure to the history of San Tommaso in Formis. Who were these brothers? How did they manage to accomplish such a feat? Questions that stimulate research and imagination.

Adventurous Research Leads in the Sanctuary

Beyond its spiritual history, the Sanctuary of San Tommaso in Formis offers interesting leads for those seeking a more adventurous experience:

• Traces of the Ancient Hospital: Explore the monastery areas in search of remains or clues testifying to the existence of the ancient hospital founded by Saint John of Matha. Perhaps some distinctive mark or hidden inscription.
• The Saint’s Cell: Identify, if possible, the location of the cell where Saint John of Matha spent the last years of his life, a place rich in spiritual significance and history.
• The Ancient Cistern: Scrutinize the ancient cisterns even more deeply in search of hidden tunnels or yet-to-be-discovered places of worship.

Decline and Rebirth: A Story of Resilient Faith

The 14th century was a difficult period for San Tommaso in Formis. The relocation of the papacy to Avignon and the Western Schism led to the departure of the Trinitarians and the subsequent decline of the sanctuary. Despite subsequent attempts to regain possession of the site, the church fell into ruin, remaining open only for Sunday mass.

Despite historical vicissitudes, devotion to San Tommaso in Formis never completely died out. The sanctuary continues to be a place of prayer and pilgrimage, testifying to the strength of faith and the memory of a saint who dedicated his life to serving others.

Saint Francis of Assisi at San Tommaso in Formis?

A tradition, albeit late, recounts that in 1209-1210, Saint Francis of Assisi, visiting Rome to obtain approval for his rule, was hosted by Saint John of Matha at San Tommaso in Formis. Although there is no certain proof, this fascinating hypothesis adds a further element of interest to the sanctuary’s history, suggesting a spiritual link between two emblematic figures of Christian holiness.

Papal Indulgences and Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction

In 1290, Pope Nicholas IV granted a year and forty days of indulgence to the faithful who visited the church on the feast day of Saint Thomas or during the octave of the Most Holy Trinity. This act underscores the importance of the sanctuary as a place of worship and pilgrimage recognized by the Church.

The jurisdiction of the sanctuary has always belonged to the Bishop of Rome, the Pope, a testament to its close bond with the Holy See.

A Treasure to Discover

The Sanctuary of San Tommaso in Formis is a hidden treasure in the heart of Rome, a place where history, faith, and art merge into a unique experience. Visiting this sanctuary means immersing oneself in a past rich in spirituality, discovering the traces of saints who dedicated their lives to serving others, and being inspired by the strength of faith.