The sanctuary at the entrance of the ancient village
At the entrance of the 15th-century Borgo Scacciaventi, in a wide and scenic square overlooking State Road 18 between Naples and Salerno, stands one of the most important spiritual sites in Cava: the Franciscan Sanctuary of St. Francis and St. Anthony.
The church, built in 1500, has seen centuries of history and devotion until it was severely damaged by the Irpinia earthquake on November 23, 1980. It was subsequently rebuilt on three levels, restoring its grandeur to the faithful and visitors alike.
Next to the Sanctuary is the Convent of the Friars Minor, which houses a rich cultural and social heritage: a prestigious library, a monumental nativity scene open year-round, the Casa del Pellegrino reception center, and a soup kitchen—a concrete sign of a tradition of hospitality and solidarity that has lasted for centuries.
The Sanctuary remains a religious, historical, and cultural landmark for Cava de’ Tirreni today, with a history spanning over five centuries that continues to attract pilgrims and tourists from all over the world.