La Verna:
Where St. Francis received the Stigmata
La Verna : Where St. Francis received the Stigmata
Step into the sacred heart of La Verna, one of Italy’s most spiritually powerful pilgrimage sites. This walking tour invites you to experience a profound blend of Franciscan faith, history, and natural beauty — from the holy sanctuary where St. Francis of Assisi received the Stigmata to centuries-old chapels nestled within the peaceful forests of Mount La Verna.
Whether you are on a Franciscan pilgrimage or simply seeking deeper spiritual reflection in a place of silence and prayer, this tour offers an unforgettable journey into the life, devotion, and legacy of St. Francis of Assisi — leaving you inspired, renewed, and uplifted.
Tour Highlights
Visit the Sanctuary of La Verna, the sacred mountain retreat where St. Francis of Assisi received the Stigmata in 1224, marking one of the most profound moments in Christian history.
Experience the Chapel of the Stigmata, built on the exact spot of this miraculous event, inviting deep prayer and reflection.
Learn about St. Francis’s time at La Verna, his fasting, solitude, and spiritual transformation that shaped Franciscan spirituality worldwide.
Walk through the holy paths and forest trails of Mount La Verna, preserved for centuries as places of silence, contemplation, and pilgrimage.
Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta and the minor chapels adorned with frescoes depicting the life and miracles of St. Francis.
Pause at the Sasso Spicco, the dramatic rock ledge where St. Francis often prayed in solitude, overlooking the valleys below.
Discover the ancient cells and hermitages used by the friars, offering insight into the simplicity and humility of Franciscan life.
Conclude with a moment of prayer and thanksgiving at the Chapel of the Stigmata, allowing the peace and spiritual power of La Verna to remain with you.
More Information
Duration : 2 Hours
Language : 
English | 
French | 
Spanish | 
German | 
Italian | 
Portuguese | 
Polish
Tour Inclusions: Experienced tour guide, Entrance to the Sanctuary of La Verna, Small group experience
Tour Exclusions: Personal expenses, hotel pickup, Food and drinks, Transportation to/from La Verna, optional donations, Entrance Fees
Distance: Approximately 1.5 km
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
Meeting Point: Please arrive 10 minutes early at the main entrance of the Sanctuary of La Verna. Your guide will meet you at the entrance of the Chapel of the Stigmata (the main chapel area near the central piazza). When facing the sanctuary, this is the main entrance straight ahead.
La Verna : Where St. Francis Received the Stigmata
Step into the sacred heart of La Verna on this immersive walking tour, where Franciscan faith, history, and natural beauty converge. Your journey begins at the Sanctuary of La Verna, the holy site where St. Francis of Assisi received the Stigmata — one of the most profound moments in Christian history. Here, you’ll learn about his life, devotion, and the spiritual legacy that continues to inspire pilgrims today.
Next, experience the Chapel of the Stigmata, built on the exact spot of this miraculous event. Discover the powerful story of St. Francis’s mystical encounter with Christ’s wounds and its enduring significance in Franciscan spirituality.
Continue your exploration along the sacred trails and forest paths of Mount La Verna, where St. Francis spent time in prayer, solitude, and contemplation. Walk in his footsteps and gain insight into the rituals, simplicity, and devotion of the early Franciscan friars.
Stroll through the sanctuary grounds and minor chapels, each telling stories of centuries of pilgrimages, prayer, and religious tradition. Pause at the Sasso Spicco, the dramatic rock ledge where St. Francis often prayed, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys — a perfect spot to reflect on the spiritual and natural beauty of La Verna.
Along the way, explore the ancient hermitages and friar cells, witnessing the humble living quarters where early followers of St. Francis sought closeness to God. Learn about the enduring Franciscan practices that continue to influence Christian communities worldwide.
Your tour concludes back at the Chapel of the Stigmata, providing a quiet moment for prayer, reflection, and gratitude. Leave with a deeper understanding of La Verna’s sacred history, its miraculous spiritual traditions, and the timeless Franciscan faith that continues to inspire pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
La Verna : Where St. Francis Received the Stigmata
Perched in the serene forests of Mount La Verna in Tuscany, La Verna is a jewel of Franciscan heritage and natural beauty. Pilgrims and travelers are drawn not only by its breathtaking landscapes but also by its profound spiritual significance. Among the most important sites to visit are the Sanctuary of La Verna, the Chapel of the Stigmata, the minor chapels and hermitages, and the scenic Sasso Spicco, where St. Francis often prayed in solitude. The forested trails surrounding the sanctuary provide a peaceful path for meditation, reflection, and walking in the footsteps of one of Christianity’s greatest saints.
The Stigmata of St. Francis (1224)
The most renowned event in La Verna’s history is the reception of the Stigmata by St. Francis of Assisi in 1224. While in deep prayer and fasting on Mount La Verna, St. Francis experienced a mystical vision of Christ crucified, receiving the wounds of the Passion on his body. This extraordinary event affirmed his profound devotion and became a defining moment in Franciscan spirituality. The Chapel of the Stigmata preserves this sacred site, which continues to draw pilgrims from around the world seeking inspiration and spiritual renewal.
St. Francis of Assisi at La Verna
St. Francis, founder of the Franciscan Order, spent significant periods at La Verna in solitude, prayer, and penance. The sanctuary contains cells, hermitages, and chapels where he and his followers lived simply, dedicating their lives to God and service. Visitors can explore these spaces, enriched with frescoes, relics, and devotional sites, witnessing the enduring legacy of St. Francis’s humility, devotion, and love for creation.
Pilgrimage and the Spiritual Path
La Verna has been a destination for pilgrims for centuries, offering a place of reflection, prayer, and connection to Franciscan tradition. Walking the trails and visiting the chapels allows pilgrims to experience a spiritual journey similar to that of early followers of St. Francis. Today, pilgrims from around the globe continue to travel to La Verna, finding inspiration, peace, and a deep sense of connection to the life and teachings of St. Francis.
Whether arriving for a day visit or an extended pilgrimage, La Verna offers a timeless spiritual experience, where faith, history, and the natural world converge to inspire the soul.
- Dress Code: Dress with an appropriate dress code for religious sites
- Walking & Terrain: The tour involves walking approximately 1.2–1.5 km over cobblestone streets, some gentle slopes, and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
- Weather & Clothing: Bolsena’s weather can vary—dress in layers and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially in warmer months.
- Respectful Conduct: Many stops include sacred sites like the Basilica, catacombs, and chapels. Please maintain respectful silence and follow the guide’s instructions.
- Photography: Photos are welcome except where restricted inside sacred areas. Please respect local customs and signage.
- Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, please inform us before booking so we can assist or recommend alternatives.
- Language: The tour is conducted in the selected at the reservation stage. Private or multilingual guide options are available upon request.
- Health & Safety: Please follow any current health protocols. Inform your guide of allergies or medical needs.
- Local Etiquette: Bolsena is a living community with religious traditions—please be courteous to locals and worshippers.
- Kids: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
- Minimum Participants: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon.
- Weather Conditions: Our tours operate in all weather conditions; however, in the event of adverse or unsafe weather, the tour may be cancelled, rescheduled, or modified for safety reasons. In such cases, suitable alternative arrangements or remedies will be considered depending on the circumstances.
Personal Items: Carry light; a small bag or backpack for water, camera, and essentials is recommended.
- Full Refund: The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund
- Time Zone: Local time is applied in the event of cancellation.
- Changes: Any changes to be made before 24 hours to the departure
- No Refund: Any changes or cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time will not be eligible for a refund.
- Group Size: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon. A full refund will be provided if the tour is cancelled due to the minimum number of participants.
- Tour Guide Availability & Language Limitations: We specialize in tours to uncommon and unique religious destinations that are often unavailable on standard tours. Due to limited local guide availability, the requested language may not always be available. In such cases, we will offer alternative options before rescheduling or cancelling the tour. If no alternatives are feasible, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled, with a full refund provided.
- Pricing Considerations: We strive to offer competitive pricing, but in some cases, limited supplier availability may affect costs.
- Our Mission: As a Catholic tour operator, our primary goal is to provide a meaningful spiritual experience. We focus on destinations that are rarely included in standard tours, ensuring your journey is both unique and spiritually enriching.
Plan Your Visit to La Verna
Discover the easiest ways to reach, stay, and enjoy La Verna — a sacred mountain retreat rich in Franciscan faith, history, and natural beauty. Travel times are approximate and may vary with schedules and traffic.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Airport Meet & Assist Services
For a smooth travel experience, take advantage of Meet & Assist services available for arrivals and departures at major airports, including Rome Fiumicino, Rome Ciampino, and Florence.
A dedicated assistant will greet you, assist with luggage, check-in, and security, ensuring a stress-free start or end to your journey.
Note: This service is provided only within the airport. It is especially useful for first-time visitors or anyone seeking a smooth start to their pilgrimage.
By Air
Rome Fiumicino (FCO) – ~150 km | Rome Ciampino (CIA) – ~140 km
Approx. 2–2.5 hours by car or taxi.
From either airport, rent a car or take a train to Chiusi or Arezzo, then continue to La Verna by local bus or taxi.
Find the Best Flights – Book your flights with Expedia
By Train
Nearest Station: Bibbiena-Camaldoli or Chiusi–Arezzo line
From Rome Termini: ~3–3.5 hours (with transfer at Arezzo or Florence)
Find the Best Trains – Book your Trains with Omio
By Car
Driving offers flexibility and scenic views of Tuscany and the Casentino Valley.
From Florence: ~130 km (~2–2.5 hours)
From Arezzo: ~45 km (~1 hour)
Parking is available near the Sanctuary of La Verna.
Find the Best Rent a Car – Rent your car with Centauto
By Bus
Regional buses connect La Verna with nearby towns such as Bibbiena, Arezzo, and Florence.
Schedules vary — always check in advance.
Find the Best Buses – Book your Buses with Omio
By Taxi / Private Transfer
Enjoy a direct, comfortable trip from airports or nearby towns.
Perfect for pilgrims, small groups, or travelers with luggage.
Private Transfers – Book your private transfer with Welcome Pickups
On Foot / Locally
La Verna is compact and best explored on foot.
All main attractions — Sanctuary, Chapel of the Stigmata, minor chapels, and Sasso Spicco — are easily accessible along scenic walking paths.
Where to Stay in La Verna
Find the perfect stay near the Sanctuary, the historic forest trails, or nearby towns.
Options include boutique hotels, guesthouses, or Franciscan guest accommodations.
Hotels & B&Bs| 
Unique Local Stays
Find the Best Hotels – Book your Hotels with Expedia or Agoda
Experiences & Activities
Make your pilgrimage unforgettable — explore the sanctuary, the Franciscan trails, or extend your journey through Tuscany and Umbria.
Book Tours & Activities
Find the Best Tours & Activities
Find tours & day trips on GetYourGuide
Explore cultural & religious tours on Viator
Travel Essentials
Be prepared and comfortable for your visit to La Verna’s sacred sites and forest paths.
Find the Best Travel Essentials
Find your travel accessories on Amazon
Find your Travel Insurance
Religious & Devotional Items
If you cannot visit La Verna in person, you can still bring a piece of its Franciscan spirituality into your home.
Explore devotional items inspired by St. Francis, La Verna, and Franciscan traditions.
Find the Best Religious & Devotional Items
Find your Religious & Devotional Items on Amazon
Note:
All times, prices, and details are approximate and may vary depending on schedules, seasons, or provider updates. Always check current travel information before booking.
Travel Tip
Combine train + local taxi or rental car for the smoothest arrival from Rome or Florence — the perfect blend of comfort and flexibility for pilgrims visiting La Verna.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Discover the places that matter most to you, even if you’re staying only a short time.
We create fully personalised pilgrimage routes and custom tours designed around your faith, interests and schedule. Whether you want to visit a sacred shrine, a historic basilica, a monastery on a hilltop, or a lesser-known religious site that few travellers reach, we’ll make it possible.
To help you save time, we can arrange private pickup from the airports, ports, Rail Stations or directly from your accommodation. Our team ensures you have direct, stress-free access to the religious destinations you may not have another chance to visit again.
Every itinerary is crafted with care: Private transfers to and from holy sites, Flexible schedules for prayer, reflection, and guided visits, Local experts to share history, spirituality, and traditions, Tailor-made tours for individuals, couples, families, or parish groups
If there’s a special tour or pilgrimage tied to a destination close to your heart, let us know — we’ll create a meaningful journey crafted just for you. Contact us to get a quotation for your personalised tour request.
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- List also other tours near the tour location ( Orvieto, Rome…etc )
Work With Us as a Tour Guide in La Verna
We’re looking for licensed tour guides in La Verna to collaborate with us in sharing the sanctuary’s profound Franciscan heritage, history, and natural beauty.
If you guide visitors through the Sanctuary of La Verna, the Chapel of the Stigmata, the minor chapels, or along the forest trails and pilgrimage paths where St. Francis prayed and meditated, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact us to join our network of trusted pilgrimage and cultural tour guides in Italy.
Partner with Us
We’re always looking to collaborate with travel agencies, pilgrimage organizers, and Catholic organizations to bring faith-based tours to more pilgrims. Partner with us to offer authentic Catholic pilgrimage experiences, expand your offerings, and deliver unforgettable journeys to sacred sites.