Best caves around Spello are situated in a region characterized by its natural landscapes, including Monte Subasio and the Menotre River. This area features ancient forests of holm oaks and significant geological formations. The caves and grottoes here offer a blend of natural karst phenomena and historical sites. The region provides opportunities to explore both geological features and places of cultural significance.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
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I remind everyone of the danger in the presence of children (and not only), that the fence has fallen, giving people the ability to lean dangerously, with the possibility of falling several meters.
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altar of the Tau
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Eremo delle Carceri, the resting place of St. Francis, Assisi The Eremo delle Carceri is a pilgrimage site located in the dense forest of Monte Subasio, about 4 km from Assisi and at an altitude of 800 m. St. Francis and his first brothers imprisoned themselves for devotion, living a simple life, and praying more devoutly. The word "carceri," which may be confusing, does not mean "prison" but comes from the Latin "carcer," meaning a solitary, isolated place. This is where the term "carcerare" comes from, referring to monks and describing their practice of retreating to pray as hermits. In 1215, Benedictine monks donated the Eremo delle Carceri to Saint Francis, which became one of the most important places in his life: Immersed in a quiet, peaceful, centuries-old holm oak forest, Saint Francis followed his calling here and learned to pray devoutly. The Grotto of Saint Francis, among stories and legends Through a narrow passage, one reaches the Grotto of Saint Francis, where, according to the history of Francis of Assisi, the saint experienced his first true meditation and became a different person. Another story is that of Saint Rufinus, a companion of Saint Francis who managed to resist the devil. It is said that the hole in the grotto floor was caused by the devil when he was defeated and sank into the abyss. Many mistakenly believe that St. Francis's famous sermon to the birds took place here, but historical sources definitively link the legend to Piandarca, a town in the municipality of Cannara. Text / Source: Umbria Tourism.it https://www.umbriatourism.it/de/-/eremo-delle-carceri-der-ruheort-des-heiligen-franziskus
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Hermitage of the Prisons, Assisi The Shrine of the Hermitage of the Prisons An ancient Franciscan shrine on Monte Subasio, 4 km from Assisi and 800 meters above sea level, in the heart of a forest of centuries-old holm oaks, is one of the Franciscan shrines guarded by the Friars Minor of the Seraphic Province of Saint Francis of Assisi. The word "carcere" does not mean "prison": it comes from the Latin "carcer," meaning a remote, solitary place, therefore suitable for the life of prayer. Francis, his companions, and, after them, the friars, came here for some prayers. Hermitage of the Prisons, Via Eremo delle Carceri, 38, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy Text/Source: SERAPHIC PROVINCE OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI OF THE UMBRIAN FRIES MINOR https://www.santuarioeremodellecarceri.org/
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Eremo delle Carceri, the resting place of St. Francis, Assisi The Eremo delle Carceri is a pilgrimage site located in the dense forest of Monte Subasio, about 4 km from Assisi and at an altitude of 800 m. St. Francis and his first brothers imprisoned themselves for devotion, living a simple life, and praying more devoutly. The word "carceri," which may be confusing, does not mean "prison" but comes from the Latin "carcer," meaning a solitary, isolated place. This is where the term "carcerare" comes from, referring to monks and describing their practice of retreating to pray as hermits. In 1215, Benedictine monks donated the Eremo delle Carceri to Saint Francis, which became one of the most important places in his life: Immersed in a quiet, peaceful, centuries-old holm oak forest, Saint Francis followed his calling here and learned to pray devoutly. The Grotto of Saint Francis, among stories and legends Through a narrow passage, one reaches the Grotto of Saint Francis, where, according to the history of Francis of Assisi, the saint experienced his first true meditation and became a different person. Another story is that of Saint Rufinus, a companion of Saint Francis who managed to resist the devil. It is said that the hole in the grotto floor was caused by the devil when he was defeated and sank into the abyss. Many mistakenly believe that St. Francis's famous sermon to the birds took place here, but historical sources definitively link the legend to Piandarca, a town in the municipality of Cannara. Text / Source: Umbria Tourism.it https://www.umbriatourism.it/de/-/eremo-delle-carceri-der-ruheort-des-heiligen-franziskus
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Hermitage of the Prisons, Assisi The Shrine of the Hermitage of the Prisons An ancient Franciscan shrine on Monte Subasio, 4 km from Assisi and 800 meters above sea level, in the heart of a forest of centuries-old holm oaks, is one of the Franciscan shrines guarded by the Friars Minor of the Seraphic Province of Saint Francis of Assisi. The word "carcere" does not mean "prison": it comes from the Latin "carcer," meaning a remote, solitary place, therefore suitable for the life of prayer. Francis, his companions, and, after them, the friars, came here for some prayers. Hermitage of the Prisons, Via Eremo delle Carceri, 38, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy Text/Source: SERAPHIC PROVINCE OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI OF THE UMBRIAN FRIES MINOR https://www.santuarioeremodellecarceri.org/
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The Abbadessa Caves in Pale are an interesting karst phenomenon, created mainly by the waters of the Menotre River. These can be found in the underground system created by the waters of the Menotre River, whose precipitation in the underground caves has led to the numerous stalactites and stalagmites. Please note that the caves can currently only be visited on Saturdays and Sundays under expert guidance. Duration approx. 30 minutes, price 6 euros (as of 2024).
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Pale stands on a travertine counter shaped by the calcium-rich waters of the Menotre River. This mineral, depositing over millennia, has given rise to spectacular caves, including the Abbadessa Caves, so called since the 17th century. There are other caves in the area, many of them partially unexplored; the Sasso di Pale and its underground treasures are a privileged destination for speleology enthusiasts.
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The region around Spello offers a mix of natural karst caves and historical grottoes. You can find ancient Franciscan shrines that include grottoes, such as the Hermitage of the Carceri, as well as natural formations like the Abbadessa Caves of Pale, known for their stalactites and stalagmites.
Yes, the Hermitage of the Carceri on Monte Subasio is a significant historical and religious site. It includes the Grotto of Saint Francis, a remote and solitary place historically used for prayer and meditation by Saint Francis and his companions.
The Abbadessa Caves of Pale are a notable karst phenomenon, featuring numerous stalactites and stalagmites formed by mineral deposits from the Menotre River over millennia. These caves showcase the geological processes of the region.
The Hermitage of the Carceri, including the Grotto of Saint Francis and the Statue of Friar Masseo and Chapel, is located in a forest on Monte Subasio. It is an ancient Franciscan shrine that welcomes visitors seeking a place of historical and spiritual significance.
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the Monte Subasio Cave Entrance is noted as a challenging cave. Visitors should be aware of potential dangers, as the fence has fallen in some areas, posing a risk of falling.
The Abbadessa Caves of Pale can only be visited on Saturdays and Sundays under expert guidance. The guided tour lasts approximately 30 minutes and costs 6 euros (as of 2024).
The area around Spello offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as those in the Monte Subasio Regional Park, or explore mountain biking routes. For more details, refer to the Hiking around Spello or MTB Trails around Spello guides.
Yes, the Hermitage of the Carceri is located on Monte Subasio, which is part of a regional park with many hiking opportunities. Trails like 'From Collepino to Spello – loop in the Monte Subasio Regional Park' are accessible in the vicinity. You can find more information in the Hiking around Spello guide.
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The ancient Franciscan shrines like the Hermitage of the Carceri offer a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into history, while natural karst phenomena like the Abbadessa Caves of Pale provide a chance to explore unique geological formations.
While specific family-friendly ratings are not available for all caves, historical sites like the Hermitage of the Carceri offer an educational and serene experience. For natural caves, guided tours, such as those at the Abbadessa Caves of Pale, can be suitable for families, though parental discretion is advised for younger children.
The caves can generally be visited throughout the year, but specific natural caves like the Abbadessa Caves of Pale have limited guided tour availability (Saturdays and Sundays). For outdoor activities near the caves, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for hiking and exploring the surrounding natural landscapes.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Spello: