Basilica of St Benedict

Saint Benedict's birthplace is the charming mountain town of Norcia. Located in a valley, it dates back to Roman times. The city is still enclosed within its protective walls and is a lovely place to visit. In the beautiful main piazza is where you'll find the Basilica of San Benedetto. The church is built over the house where he was born in 480 AD, along with his twin sister, Scholastica, who is also a saint. St. Benedict is famous for founding the monastic order that bears his name, as well as the Benedict Rule, a practical guide for applying principles of discipline in monastic and personal life. St. Benedict is the patron saint of Europe, and was the first to start a Christian monastic community.

The basilica bears a Gothic facade with a pointed arched door and a lovely rose window. The arcaded Loggia of the Merchants spans the side of the church, added in 1510. The portico provided space for a covered market, where grain receptacles used in that time can still be seen. The Medieval interior is simple and spare, though it has a few frescoes that depict the saint's life. However, the real attraction is downstairs, below ground level where the ancient remains of the Roman era house can be seen.

The Benedict Order still has an active monastery in Norcia. They run a hospitality center and gift shop, where monastic-made goods and religious articles can be purchased. They are always welcoming and happy to discuss the order, the church and the saint that inspires them.