Basilica of San Tommaso Apostolo, Ortona
Church Romanesque basilica in Ortona, containing Saint Thomas relics
In Ortona, the Basilica of San Tommaso Apostolo houses relics of Saint Thomas and draws pilgrims and history-minded visitors to its chapels and reliquary.
The Basilica of San Tommaso Apostolo is the principal church of Ortona in Abruzzo, Italy, known for preserving relics associated with Saint Thomas the Apostle. The building is a major religious and cultural landmark for the town.
The site has medieval origins and developed over centuries as the town’s main church. The relics of Saint Thomas made the church an important pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages and later periods. The building suffered heavy damage during the Battle of Ortona in World War II and was subsequently repaired and restored.
Located in the town of Ortona on the Adriatic coast in the province of Chieti, Abruzzo, the basilica sits within the historic center a short distance from the town’s seafront.
- Relics: Houses the relics of Saint Thomas the Apostle, which make the church an important local pilgrimage site.
- War damage and restoration: Sustained heavy damage during the fighting for Ortona in World War II and underwent postwar restoration work.
How to Get to Basilica of San Tommaso Apostolo, Ortona #
Ortona is about 20 km east of Pescara. By train: Ortona station connects to regional lines from Pescara and Bari; from the station it’s a 10-15 minute walk to the basilica. By car: follow SS16 (Adriatica) and take the Ortona exit.
Tips for Visiting Basilica of San Tommaso Apostolo, Ortona #
- Check mass and service times-parts of the basilica may be closed during major liturgies.
- Admire the 13th-century Maestà painting and the relics associated with St. Thomas the Apostle.
- Visit the adjacent crypt and small museum to understand Ortona's medieval history.
Best Time to Visit Basilica of San Tommaso Apostolo, Ortona #
Best in late spring or early autumn to avoid summer heat and crowds; check service times which can affect access.
Weather & Climate near Basilica of San Tommaso Apostolo, Ortona #
Temperate climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 3°C to 28°C. Moderate rainfall (596 mm/year).
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (43 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C. The driest month with just 29 mm and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm).
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 28°C and lows of 19°C. Moderate rainfall (31 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 19°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (64 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 7°C. The wettest month with 71 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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