Sanctuary of the Avvocatella in Cava de' Tirreni

The origins of this sanctuary, in the 17th century, blend history and legend. The cave, once called the bats' cave, was avoided because it was believed to be haunted by spirits. It is said that a priest met a mysterious cobbler there, who vanished as soon as the priest called on Jesus and Mary. We like this folk tale, handed down through generations.To sanctify the place, an image of the Madonna known as the Avvocata was placed in the cave, with the Child between Saint Paul I and Saint Onuphrius. From then on the cave took the name Grotta dell'Avvocatella. The painted niche is the work of a humble Franciscan friar from the convent of Cava. We recommend a quiet, reflective visit.