The Story:

Born Francesco Forgione in Italy in 1887, St. Padre Pio is a widely venerated Saint famous for his Stigmata, visions and gifts of healing. The major Shrine to St. Padre Pio is the Sanctuary of Pio of Pietrelcina in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy. He was Beatified and Canonized by St. John Paul II. Raised in a deeply religious family, it is believed that St. Padre Pio dedicated his life to God at just 5 years old. St. Padre Pio barely ate or slept and throughout his life he was often ill – in 1918 his Stigmata first appeared. He was known to speak directly to Mary, Jesus and the Angels. In San Giovanni Rotondo, Pilgrims can view the incorrupt Body of St. Padre Pio, tour the sanctuary, and view the crucifix where St. Pio received the Stigmata.

Accommodations: San Giovanni Rotondo has many 4 and 5-star hotels

Address: Piazzale Santa Maria delle Grazie, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo FG, Italy