saint annes church pietrelcina hometown padre pio

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Saint Annes Church in Pietrelcina, hometown of Padre Pio Royalty Free Stock Photo

Saint Annes Church in Pietrelcina, hometown of Padre Pio

Sant'Anna is the oldest church in town and located near the Belvedere, or lookout point over Pietrelcina. It traces its origins to the 13th century, but was rebuilt after being severely damaged by an earthquake in 1688. The baptismal font in which young Francesco was baptized is located near the entrance. Francesco received other sacraments here, including his First Communion, Confirmation, and regular confession.Of note are relics of St. Pius the Martyr, a 2nd-century pope originally buried in the Catacombs of St. Priscilla in Rome. His relics were donated to this church by feudal lords in 1801 and placed beneath the main altar. These relics were revered by young Francesco and led to the choice of his religious name, Pio.