The A24 highway is transformed this year into an evocative route that ideally unites two historical and spiritual events of extraordinary importance: the Universal Jubilee of the Catholic Church in Rome and the Perdonanza Celestiniana in L’Aquila. The latter, called by Pope Celestine V back in 1294 with the Bull of Forgiveness, is recognized as the first Christian Jubilee in history, preceding the first Roman Jubilee by six years.
The Perdonanza, with its more than seven centuries of history, is not only a religious celebration, but a true cultural heritage that is renewed every year in August. In fact, in 2019, it was recognized byUNESCO as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity, testifying to its universal value of peace, forgiveness and reconciliation.
How to get to the Perdonanza
Reaching the Basilica of Collemaggio in L’Aquila, the heart of the Perdonanza, is quick and easy thanks to the A24 highway. The recommended exit is L’Aquila Est. From here, simply continue on Regional Road 17bis, continuing on Via Amleto Cencioni e Via della Crocetta in the direction of thethe Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, the epicenter of the festivities.
The program of events
The 2025 edition of the Perdonanza Celestiniana will take place Aug. 23-30. The program, full of religious and cultural events, offers a unique experience for believers, tourists and music lovers.
Highlights include:
Aug. 23: The opening ceremony and lighting of the Tripod of Peace in Piazza Palazzo, in the heart of L’Aquila’s historic center, open to the public free of charge. which officially kicks off the event. At 9:30 p.m., the Teatro del Perdono, set up as usual in front of the Collemaggio basilica, will host the opening performance, conceived by Leonardo De Amicis and with lyrics by Paolo Logli. The show is ticketed and reservations must be made.
Aug. 28: The solemn Historical Procession of the Bull of Forgiveness, which precedes the opening of the Holy Door of the Basilica of Collemaggio by Cardinal Pietro Parolin. The opening of the Holy Door marks the beginning of the 24 hours of plenary indulgence.
Aug. 29: The concluding celebration and the closing of the Holy Door.
The cultural program, directed by Leonardo De Amicis, will feature many nationally and internationally renowned artists. Among the names that will enliven the evenings in L’Aquila will be Renato Zero, Antonello Venditti, Raoul Bova, Francesco Gabbani, Alex Britti, Amara, Gaetano Curreri with Stadio, Giuliano Sangiorgi, Brunori Sas and Tananai, who will perform at various shows between the Basilica of Collemaggio and other iconic venues in the city.
The Perdonanza is an unmissable opportunity to immerse oneself in the history, spirituality and culture of a city in continuous rebirth, which is preparing to become the Italian Capital of Culture for 2026.
To learn about all the events in detail, download the full program of Perdonanza Celestiniana here
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