Oaks, chestnuts, and evergreen holm oaks characterize the forest of Monteluco, whose millennial importance is evidenced by its name (lucus = sacred wood) and the ancient, strict protection rules engraved on the cippi of the Lex Spoletina. This is the first example of forest regulation, consisting of stone inscriptions from the late 3rd century B.C., written in archaic Latin, which established penalties for the desecration of the Sacred Wood dedicated to Jupiter.
Starting from the 5th century, this place became the destination of one of the largest hermit movements of the time, linked to the figure of Saint Isaac, who came from Syria. His example was followed by numerous monks, and soon the mountain transformed into a vast monastery where life was led in isolation in cells, hermitages, or caves carved into the rock.
Climbing Monteluco, you encounter the Church of San Pietro, an exemplary monument of Umbrian Romanesque architecture, and then the Church of San Giuliano. Upon reaching Monteluco, you can visit the Sanctuary, which tradition says was founded by Saint Francis himself. The oldest part of the sanctuary consists of seven small cells built and inhabited by the Saint and his followers. Numerous hermitages and caves, including that of Saint Anthony of Padua, can be reached via the walking path that winds through the forest behind the Sanctuary of Saint Francis.
Located at the center of an extensive network of CAI trails that connect it to both the nearby Monte Fionchi and the historic center of Spoleto, Monteluco represents a pleasant and rejuvenating stop for hikers and pilgrims passing through, many of whom are walking along the Way of St. Francis, a spiritual itinerary that touches the places visited and lived by the Saint.
Monteluco is also the venue for outdoor events, especially in the summer season, and offers a large park, a basketball court, and a playground equipped to welcome and invite both adults and children to a day of leisure. Around the park, there are small kiosks for short breaks, as well as accommodation facilities and restaurants offering dishes made with local products. Due to its environmental characteristics, Monteluco and the entire Spoleto Mountain are part of the “site of community interest” (SIC) Monteluco di Spoleto and the “special protection area” (ZPS) Bassa Valnerina: Monte Fionchi - Marmore Falls.
The map ‘Monteluco&Oltre. Itineraries on the Spoleto Mountain’ is available at the Spoleto Tourist Information Office.
