Patronal Feast of Saint Peter of the Hermit

The village of Pope Celestine V

In the inland Molise region, in the province of Campobasso, Sant'Angelo Limosano cherishes a deep connection with one of the most fascinating figures in Church history: Peter of Morrone, who became pope with the name Celestine V, the hermit pope famous for the "great refusal" and for the Perdonanza. The village — which disputes its origins with Isernia — commemorates him every year on May 19th, the day of his liturgical feast.

The feast and the Spring of Saint Peter

The Patronal Feast of Saint Peter Celestine V is marked by religious celebrations and a lively market fair set up along Via San Rocco. Adding to the event's charm is the tradition linked to the Spring of Saint Peter: according to popular devotion, its waters flow again a few days before May 19th, an awaited sign that announces the feast of the angelic pope.

Faith, history, and identity

Celebrating Celestine V in Sant'Angelo Limosano means renewing an identity rooted in the Middle Ages that still unites the community today. The figure of the hermit pope, also linked to the pilgrimage to the Basilica of Collemaggio in L'Aquila, makes this small Molise village a precious stop for those wishing to learn about the spiritual history of the area. The feast thus combines devotional and popular dimensions of the market and social gathering.