It is surprising to discover how a small village like Sant'Angelo in grotte can hold so many treasures to discover. Its size is perfectly reflected in the small number of inhabitants, which today are more or less 200. A community that is nothing short of united, in which to say that everyone knows each other is a matter of course. We are in Molise, on the top of a mountain located on the road located between Castelpetroso and Macchiagodena.
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The small village of Sant'Angelo in grotte has a very specific urban structure, which revolves around a main road axis. This goes from the ancient bell tower, which is also the door of the medieval town, up to belvedere. A splendid place, which offers a suggestive view of the plain below, from a height of almost 1000 meters.
In ancient times, a palazzo feudal. Of what was so grandiose, only a few ruins remain, unfortunately. The ancient Roman dominations are often represented along the main road, especially with the representation of the lion. Three heads are depicted on the quadrangular tower. It is also possible to admire him posing while holding a lamb in his claws.
Sant'Angelo in grotte: legends
There are several legends that revolve around Sant'Angelo in caves and the entire landscape area. One in particular cannot be ignored. At the center there is San Michele. Ancient history has it that he was enchanted by the absolute beauty of Sant'Angelo in grotte, to the point of choosing to suspend his wandering and make it his home.
Before he moved to the famous Gargano cave, the Archangel apparently preferred the cave which today has become the famous cave church of the village. It is located among the first buildings of the small village. A rocky cave that has a well inside with a source of blessed water. Outside there are splendid Gothic-style windows, while in the upper part stands a white stone bell tower, as well as a steep staircase (each step bears the name of those who contributed to the construction).
Another legend is linked to the statue of c. Many years ago, September 29 was celebrated. During the celebrations in honor of him, the statue was carried in procession, and then brought back to the cave in the evening.
But one year something very strange happened. The faithful went to the church to pick up the saint but they realized that the statue was much heavier than usual. This did not stop them and, helped by other fellow villagers, they succeeded in the enterprise. A turning out of the door, the statue was overwhelmed by an unexpected violent rain, with ash and lapilli. The faithful understood that the Saint did not want to leave the cave and since then he has not been carried in procession anymore.
Photo source in evidence: https://www.facebook.com/prolocosantangrloingrotte
How wonderful