Cascia, Santa Rita and Roccaporena from Rome Private Day Tour

Explore the Sacred Journey from Rome to Cascia and Roccaporena

This full-day private tour offers a meaningful excursion from Rome to the heart of Santa Rita’s spiritual legacy, priced at $449.43 per person. Departing early in the morning at 7:30 am, the tour lasts approximately 10 hours, making it a substantial experience for those interested in religious history and personal reflection. The trip features private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort throughout the journey, with WiFi onboard for convenience. With a high booking rate—averaging 35 days in advance—this tour is popular among visitors seeking an intimate, guided pilgrimage experience.

The highlight is the chance to visit the Shrine of Santa Rita in Cascia, where the relics of Saint Rita are kept, alongside her birthplace, Roccaporena. The tour’s reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides, particularly Alessandro, whose insights add depth to the visit. The tour includes all fees and taxes, bottled water, and private transport, making it a smooth and informative day. However, note that lunch and tickets are not included, so planning for meals and entrance fees separately is recommended.

Key Points

• Private guided tour from Rome with air-conditioned transportation
• Visits to the Shrine of Santa Rita in Cascia and her birthplace, Roccaporena
• All fees and taxes included, with bottled water and WiFi onboard
• Duration of approximately 10 hours, starting early at 7:30 am
• Highly praised for knowledgeable guides and spiritual atmosphere
• Popularity reflected in bookings 35 days in advance

Visiting the Shrine of Santa Rita in Cascia

The tour begins at the Monastero di Santa Rita da Cascia, where the minor basilica houses the relics of Saint Rita. Inside, you can see the mortal remains of the saint, who was born Margherita Lotti in 1381 and later became an Italian nun. The basilica is part of the homonymous sanctuary, which has expanded over the decades to accommodate increasing pilgrim visits. The relocated church now provides a more spacious setting for prayer and reflection, making for a respectful spiritual experience.

The basilica’s history highlights Saint Rita’s significance: she was beatified in 1628 and canonized in 1900. The reliquary draws many visitors, and the guided commentary enhances understanding of her life and miracles. The 2-hour visit is focused on offering a peaceful environment, with ample opportunities to pray or simply absorb the atmosphere of devotion.

Discover Santa Rita’s Birthplace in Roccaporena

The tour continues to Roccaporena, a small village at 707 meters elevation in the municipality of Cascia, about 6 km away. Known for being Santa Rita’s birthplace, Roccaporena has preserved its medieval charm and remains a key site for pilgrims. The village’s modest population—around 73 residents—shields the peaceful, spiritual character of the place.

In 1939, the Opera di Santa Rita was established here to promote her cult, restore her memory, and carry out charitable works inspired by her life. The new Shrine in Roccaporena, designed by architect Oreste della Piana, features a portico at the entrance and an interior that invites reflection. Visitors can explore the historical streets, learn about her early life, and see the charitable works inspired by her example.

The visit to Roccaporena offers a deeper understanding of Santa Rita’s origins and the devotion still alive today. The guided tour provides insights into the town’s history and the ongoing importance of her legacy, making it a meaningful stop for those interested in her story.

Comfortable Transport and Guided Spiritual Experience

Travelers appreciate the private transportation, which ensures a seamless, stress-free day. The air-conditioned vehicle keeps everyone comfortable, especially in the summer months, and the onboard WiFi allows for easy communication or capturing photos during transit. The expert guides—notably Alessandro—are praised for their knowledge and courteous manner.

The tour emphasizes a spiritual journey, not just sightseeing. Attending mass at the basilica is an option during the visit, adding to the religious significance. The guides explain the importance of each site, enhancing the personal and spiritual connection for participants.

Practical Details and Booking Insights

Starting at 7:30 am, the tour is designed for those willing to spend a full day away from Rome’s bustling streets. The 10-hour duration allows for in-depth visits, but travelers should be prepared for a moderate pace. Since tickets are not included, visitors should budget separately for entrance fees if desired.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join, and the meeting point arranged conveniently. The group size is limited to your private party, ensuring a personalized experience. Booking in advance is recommended, given the popularity and the 35-day average notice period, particularly during peak seasons.

The Experience of a Spiritual and Cultural Journey

This tour offers more than sightseeing: it’s a chance to connect with Santa Rita’s life and legacy. The guides’ expertise shines through their explanations, making the history accessible and meaningful. Visiting the shrines and the village of Roccaporena provides a vivid picture of her humble origins and enduring influence.

While the absence of lunch and tickets might require some logistical planning, the overall value lies in the personalized, guided approach and the peaceful atmosphere at each site. The positive reviews confirm that this experience leaves a lasting impression, emphasizing the knowledgeable guides and the spiritual ambiance.

The Sum Up: A Reflective Day for Pilgrims and Curious Visitors

This private tour from Rome offers a thoughtful exploration of Santa Rita’s life through visits to her basilica and birthplace. The cost reflects the exclusivity and personalized attention, with expert guides making the experience richer. Suitable for those interested in religious history, spirituality, or seeking a calm, reflective day, this tour delivers a meaningful journey.

The high praise from past participants highlights the value of knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and spiritual atmosphere. While it requires a full day and some planning for additional costs, the deep connection to Santa Rita’s legacy makes it a memorable experience. This tour is especially fitting for visitors who appreciate personalized, faith-inspired excursions and want to step away from typical sightseeing to explore a place of true spiritual significance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility limitations?
Most of the tour involves walking through the basilica and the village, but specific accessibility details are not provided. It’s advisable to check with the provider if mobility concerns exist.

Are tickets for the basilica included?
No, tickets are not included, so visitors should arrange for entrance separately if they wish to visit specific sites requiring entry fees.

Can I attend mass during the tour?
Yes, attending mass at the basilica is an option during the visit, adding a meaningful spiritual component.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The Shrine of Santa Rita in Cascia and her birthplace in Roccaporena are the key highlights, offering insights into her life and enduring influence.

How long does the tour take?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning.

Is food included?
No, lunch is not included, so it’s recommended to bring a meal or plan to purchase something during the day.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private transportation, knowledgeable guides, and focus on Santa Rita’s spiritual journey set this tour apart for those interested in her story.

Can I customize the experience?
Since this is a private tour, customization is possible by discussing preferences with the provider, especially regarding attending mass or specific sites.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 35 days in advance is typical, especially during busy seasons, to secure availability.