We invite you to stay at the Pilgrims House when you visit.
The Sanctuary of St Philomena, Virgin Martyr and Wonder-worker, was established at the Church of the Madonna of Grace, Mugnano del Cardinale (in the district of Avellino, Italy) following the translation of her sacred relics in 1805. From the very beginning the Sanctuary became a place of pilgrimage. Devotees of the Saint flocked to this shrine in order to pray before her relics. Wonders and miracles became the order of the day! Saints and Blessed, Kings and Queens, Princes and paupers came to invoke the great Wonder-Worker.
St Philomena’s most illustrious pilgrim was Pope Blessed Pius IX, who celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at her Altar on November 7, 1849. The Ven. Pauline Jaricot, founder of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, came on pilgrimage in 1835 and was cured of a fatal illness while at the Shrine.
A 30-year restoration program was begun by the present Rector, Msgr. Giovanni Braschi, and is nearing completion. Not only has the beautiful Sanctuary Church been sympathetically redecorated, a comfortable pilgrimage centre has also been created for the spiritual life of the Sanctuary. It is now able to provide accommodation for devotees who wish to spend some time at the feet of St Philomena.
This Pilgrim Centre is much more like a home than a hotel. All rooms are well appointed, clean and have ensuite bathrooms. Family rooms, double and twin rooms are available, however single rooms are limited. An elevator provides easy access to some floors. Food is served in the spacious refectory is of a particularly high standard and gives an excellent opportunity to taste the wonderful Neapolitan cuisine. The Refectory (dining room) is situated on the first floor. There is a kettle and water urn available with tea/coffee for use at any time. All meals are served within the refectory at:
There are three lounge areas within the Sanctuary on each floor. The main lounge is situated on the first floor beside the refectory where you can relax. There is also a garden area accessed from the Refectory with the main access from the third floor. On this floor the rooms have been built around the dome of the Sanctuary and you can look through the windows into the church. The suite on the fourth floor has direct access onto the roof where the picturesque views are amazing, you can walk around the top of the dome from here and also have views down to the garden.
