Located in the most mountainous area of Umbria, Cascia is one of the region's most important spiritual centers. It is a destination for pilgrimages and owes its significance to the Sanctuary dedicated to Saint Rita, who lived between 1381 and 1457. Beatified in 1900 and known as the "dispenser of graces," Saint Rita is venerated worldwide.
Founded during the Roman era, Cascia reached its height of prosperity in the Middle Ages, first under the rule of the Foligno nobility, later under Frederick II of Swabia. It was contested, unsuccessfully, by nearby cities such as Norcia, Leonessa, and Spoleto. By the late 1400s, it surrendered to the Papal States, under whose control it remained for less than 30 years. Since then, Cascia has maintained its independence.
Fondata in epoca romana, Cascia visse il maggior splendore nel Medioevo, prima sotto la dominazione della signoria folignate, successivamente sotto il dominio di Federico II di Svevia, in seguito contesa, senza successo, dalle vicine città di Norcia, Leonessa e Spoleto.
Alle soglie del 1500, si arrese allo Stato Pontificio, sotto il cui dominio rimase per meno di 30 anni, da allora mantenne sempre la propria indipendenza.
The main attractions of the town are the Basilica Sanctuary and the Monastery of Saint Rita, dating back to the 13th century. These world-renowned religious centers offer visitors opportunities for reflection and prayer.
The basilica is a modern construction built over nine years (1938–1947) on the remains of a previous structure from 1557. On either side of the portal, two pillars divided into ten panels feature relief carvings illustrating key episodes from the life of Saint Rita, with inscriptions in the vernacular taken from the 15th-century wooden chest in which her body was laid to rest. Inside the chapel is the sarcophagus where the nuns placed Rita's body immediately after her death.
The city's main architectural works date back to the medieval period, including:
Church of San Francesco: Notable for its beautiful rose window and pointed portal.
Church of Sant’Agostino: Houses stunning frescoes by the Umbrian school.
Church of Sant’Antonio Abate: Originating from the 1400s, it was renovated and modified during the Baroque period. Inside is a cycle of paintings depicting the history of the saint.
Collegiate Church of Santa Maria: Built during the Lombard era, it is likely the oldest building in the city, although significantly altered over time. Inside is a remarkable 15th-century wooden crucifix.
Civil Architecture
Palazzo Carli: The most representative example of civil architecture in Cascia.
Palazzo Santi: Now home to a museum, it features archaeological artifacts and elegant wooden sculptures from the 14th and 15th centuries.