Places
Viewpoint·Moderate·Scenic·Popular
Sacro Speco
Lazio
St. Benedict is said to have retreated to a cave on this cliff face above Subiaco before founding the monastic order that bears his name, and the monastery built into the rock around that original cave preserves frescoes dating back centuries. The site clings dramatically to the cliff, with terraces looking down over the Aniene river gorge far below. A trail links it to a second, older Benedictine monastery further down the valley.
Duration
2 hours
Distance
4 km
Elevation
+200 m
Best season
March – November
Highlights
- Cave linked to St. Benedict's hermit years
- Cliffside monastery with centuries-old frescoes
- Views over the Aniene river gorge
With your dog
Steep approach road and steps; dogs on leash within the monastery grounds.
