Sant'Emidio alle Grotte
A unique Baroque tempietto built into a natural cave, honoring Saint Emidio, the patron saint of Ascoli Piceno.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier access
Sant'Emidio alle Grotte
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique Baroque tempietto built into a natural cave, honoring Saint Emidio, the patron saint of Ascoli Piceno.
"A beautiful and mysterious small temple carved into a natural cave, a true hidden gem."
Ring the Bell for Entry
The interior is often closed. Ring the bell at the opposite building to arrange access. :key:
Park and Walk Up
Park near the bridge and walk up for a scenic approach to the tempietto. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grotto Interior
Inside the Tempietto
A natural tuff cave refined into three rooms, one housing the saint's sepulcher. A mix of beauty and mystery.
Baroque Facade
Exterior of the Tempietto
Intricately designed from limestone, this Baroque facade is a striking contrast to its natural cave setting.
Saint Emidio's Sepulcher
Main Grotto Room
The sacred space where the patron saint of Ascoli Piceno is believed to be buried, adding historical depth.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Inner Grottoes
Parking and Approach
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ring the Bell for Entry
The interior is often closed. Ring the bell at the opposite building to arrange access. :key:
Park and Walk Up
Park near the bridge and walk up for a scenic approach to the tempietto. :car:
Appreciate the Facade
The limestone facade is a work of art, even if the interior is inaccessible. :art:
Learn the Legend
Discover the story of Saint Emidio, the patron saint, for a richer visit. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ring the Bell for Entry
The interior is often closed. Ring the bell at the opposite building to arrange access. :key:
Park and Walk Up
Park near the bridge and walk up for a scenic approach to the tempietto. :car:
Appreciate the Facade
The limestone facade is a work of art, even if the interior is inaccessible. :art:
Learn the Legend
Discover the story of Saint Emidio, the patron saint, for a richer visit. :scroll:
Capture the Light
The interplay of light within the grottoes is magical. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Sant'Emidio alle Grotte to be a unique and beautiful site, particularly appreciating its integration of a Baroque church within a natural cave and the legend of Saint Emidio. However, the frequent closure of the interior and the need to arrange access can be a point of frustration for some.
"Sant'Emidio alle Grotte is a Roman Catholic church which is constructed in the Baroque technique, in Ascoli Piceno, about 200 km (125 miles) from Roma.
Its name refers to Saint Emygdius (Emidius). According to legend, after having been beheaded in 309 near the current church of Sant'Emidio Rosso, the saint walked here with his head in his hands to be buried. The church (known as tempietto, meaning "small temple", for its small size) was built in 1717–1721 by commission of bishop Giovanni Gambi, a relative of Pope Clement XI.
Sant'Emidio alle Grotte has been constructed as part of a cave with the facade being intricately designed from the limestone while the inner grottoes have been polished up and refined into three rooms, one of which has the sepulcher of the Saint Emidio while the others serve as oratories. The overall effect is a mix of beauty and mystery...
* Photos courtesy of Internet. Thanks!"
Dinh Tuan
"Very nice but usually closed, you have to ring at the association in the building in front of it.to access the inside"
Vincenzo Reale
"Nice little temple 10 minutes from the city center"
Tiziano Patrick Dodgson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sant'Emidio alle Grotte is located about 10 minutes from the city center of Ascoli Piceno. It's recommended to park along the access road near the bridge over the road above and walk up about 100 meters to reach the tempietto.
Direct parking at the tempietto is limited. The best approach is to park along the access road near the bridge and walk the short distance up to the site.
While specific public transport routes directly to the tempietto might be limited, it's a short distance from Ascoli Piceno's center, making it accessible via local buses to the city and then a walk or short taxi ride.
The approach involves a short walk uphill from the parking area. While the facade is accessible, the interior grottoes might present challenges due to their natural formation and potential uneven surfaces.
Sant'Emidio alle Grotte is located in Ascoli Piceno, which is approximately 200 km (125 miles) from Rome. [^Reviews]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are not typically required as it's a historical site. However, access to the interior is often restricted and requires contacting an association in the building opposite to gain entry.
The tempietto is frequently closed. Visitors usually need to arrange access by ringing the bell at the association in the building in front of it.
To visit the interior, you typically need to contact the association located in the building directly opposite the tempietto and arrange a viewing.
There is generally no entrance fee for Sant'Emidio alle Grotte, but access to the interior may depend on arrangements made with the local association.
While you can see the exterior, visiting the interior often requires prior arrangement by contacting the association in the building opposite.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site. The interplay of light within the grottoes makes for stunning photos.
The intricately designed Baroque facade and the unique interior grottoes, especially the room with the saint's sepulcher, offer excellent photographic opportunities. 
As with most historical and religious sites, drone usage is likely restricted. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone in the area.
The interior features natural light filtering into the grottoes, creating a mystical atmosphere. The exterior is well-lit during the day.
If a wedding is taking place, it's important to be discreet and respectful of the ceremony. It's best to ask permission from the couple or officiant before taking photos.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
The Tempietto di Sant'Emidio alle Grotte was built between 1717 and 1721 as a Baroque church commissioned by Bishop Giovanni Gambi. It was constructed as part of a natural cave to honor Saint Emidio, the patron saint of Ascoli Piceno, who legend says walked to this spot with his head in his hands after being beheaded.
Saint Emidio is the patron saint of Ascoli Piceno. Legend states he chose this spot for his burial after his martyrdom, making the tempietto a significant religious site for the city. [^Reviews]
'Tempietto' means 'small temple' in Italian, reflecting the modest size of the church which is built into a natural cave. [^Reviews]
The church is constructed in the Baroque style, with an intricately designed facade made from limestone, while the interior is a refined natural grotto. [^Reviews]
It was built as a thanksgiving to Saint Emidio for protecting the city from an intense earthquake and as a burial site for the saint, according to legend.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
[^Reviews]Tips for families: Plan your visit to ensure interior access by contacting the association beforehand. The short walk from the parking area is manageable for most children. Focus on the storytelling aspect of Saint Emidio's legend to capture their imagination.
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
+1Consider visiting during a less crowded time to fully appreciate the serene ambiance. The site's historical significance and the legend of Saint Emidio can provide a meaningful backdrop for a shared discovery. It's a charming spot for a quiet moment together, away from the usual tourist hustle.
📸 Photographers and Art Enthusiasts
+1Key photo opportunities: Capture the contrast between the man-made facade and the natural cave. Experiment with light and shadow within the grottoes to highlight the textures of the rock and the sacred spaces. The unique setting provides ample opportunities for creative and memorable imagery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Saint Emidio
This narrative explains why the church, or 'tempietto' (small temple), was constructed here. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a testament to the enduring faith and the legendary protection offered by the city's patron saint. The site's connection to this powerful legend is a key draw for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Ascoli Piceno's spiritual heritage.
[^Reviews]Understanding this legend enhances the visitor's experience, transforming a visit from simply seeing a unique structure to connecting with a centuries-old story of martyrdom and divine intervention. It's this blend of natural wonder and historical narrative that makes Sant'Emidio alle Grotte so compelling.
Architectural Uniqueness: Baroque Meets Natural Cave
Inside, the natural tuff cave has been carefully refined into three distinct rooms. One of these rooms houses the sepulcher of Saint Emidio, while the others serve as oratories. This thoughtful adaptation of the natural environment creates an atmosphere that is both sacred and mysterious, a unique blend that captivates visitors. [^Reviews]
The overall effect is a harmonious fusion of human artistry and geological wonder. It’s this distinctive combination that makes the Tempietto di Sant'Emidio alle Grotte a standout attraction, offering a visual and spiritual experience unlike any other.
+1Experiencing the Grottoes: Access and Atmosphere
Once inside, the atmosphere is one of quiet reverence and natural beauty. The refined grottoes, particularly the one containing the saint's sepulcher, offer a glimpse into a sacred space carved from the earth itself. The interplay of light within the cave creates a serene and contemplative environment, making the effort to gain entry well worthwhile.
[^Reviews]Travelers often highlight the 'beauty and mystery' of the interior, emphasizing how the polished rock and the historical significance combine to create a memorable visit. It's a place that encourages quiet reflection and an appreciation for its singular design and spiritual heritage. [^Reviews]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit