“Spiritually, a big meeting of spiritual personages took place here (cave in Assisi) the likes of which has never before been held.” Meher Baba
Baba’s cave is located about 4 km from Assisi Center on the grounds of the Eremo delle Carceri, also called “The Hermitage”. This sacred site, where Saint Francis and his brothers would retreat for solitude and prayer is now guarded, protected, and maintained by Franciscan Friars and Sisters.
Address: Via Eremo delle Carceri, 38, Assisi
Hours: Eremo delle Carceri hours can change seasonally. Please visit santuarioeremodellecarceri.org for more information.
Along the stone path as you approach the entrance to the Eremo delle Carceri, on your left, you will see a map of the Ermo delle Carceri grounds. The cave, associated with St Francis, and used by Meher Baba for his work is the cave of Andrea Di Spello marked, Grotta Del Beato Andrea Di Spello. Unfortunately, the location of the cave is no longer listed on this map.
Map To The Cave
IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING SAFETY ON THE PATH TO MEHER BABA’S CAVE
Naturally, it is the responsibility of each person individually to discern and decide if they are physically capable of safely making the trek to Meher Baba’s cave. Meherassisi.com feels it is our duty and responsibility to highlight the need for safety and to offer clear information to help pilgrims make the best choice for themselves.
USE EXTREME CAUTION
Please be aware that after leaving the main path the descent down to Baba’s cave is steep and can be hazardous. While walking, it is important to note that the ground beneath your feet can be unstable and unpredictable. Regardless of your physical strength and stamina, it is wise to use caution with every step.
PILGRIMS WITH PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS
If you have any physical limitations or balance issues, we encourage you to consider staying on the MAIN path, or above on the flatter grounds of the Hermitage. Meher Baba’s love is forever flowing and is not confined to the limitations of the cave. There are many beautiful areas on these sacred grounds to experience Meher Baba’s divine Love radiating out to embrace you and the world.
OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER
Plan your Trip to the Cave in Dry Weather
After a hard rain, it takes time under the canopy of forest trees for the accumulations of leaves on the ground, loose gravel, and large rocks you must navigate, to dry out. These conditions greatly increase the chances of a slip and fall.
Wear Appropriate Footwear
Sturdy hiking boots or good grip walking shoes are recommended.
Walking to the Cave Alone
Walking to the cave alone is not recommended. However, if you decide to take the trek alone, tell someone reliable where you are going and when you plan to return. If something unforeseen happens and you need help you may find yourself stranded for a long time if nobody knows you are missing. This area is off the beaten path, often unattended, and visited very infrequently.
*Be advised that your cell phone may or may not work in the area where you will be walking.
*Consider bringing a whistle to help alert others that you need help and in what direction they can find you, should it become necessary.
Pilgrims Returning to the Cave
Please take note that the condition of the pathway leading to the cave is forever changing and unpredictable. Mother nature makes changes from time to time. If you have previously visited the cave, you may not find the condition of the path exactly the way you remember it to be.
Transportation/Directions to the Eremo delle Carceri
Taxi/Private Driver: See list posted under Transportation.
Driving or Direct Roadway Walking Instructions
Between the Matteotti Parking garage and the Nun Spa is the paved road SP251 (the road is to your left when you face the parking garage). A short distance away you will pass through the stone city gate. Bear left and follow the road all the way up to the entrance of the Ermo delle Carceri. From this point onward, most of the way, you will find dirt/stone sidewalks to protect walkers from traffic.
Hiking the Forest Mountain Path
This path is a bit more demanding and quite challenging for those with physical limitations, the path is graveled and rocky but well worth the effort for those who are able. It offers grand views, solitude, and the beauty of nature at its best.
Directions and Access to the Forest Mountain Path
Between the Matteotti Parking garage and the Nun Spa is the paved road SP251 (the road is to your left when you face the parking garage). A short distance away you will pass through the stone city gate. As soon as you pass through the stone city gate look to your left, you will see a sign for the Rocca Minore. It is a gravel tree lined path; take this path. About 100-150 meters up the path, you come will come to Rocca Minore on your left. Take the path that curves off to the right and up Mount Subasio. This is ‘trail 50‘ and it is marked with red and white painted lines on trees and rocks trailside. There is also a yellow and blue marker along the same path and a yellow Tau – the sign of Francis. The path goes essentially straight up the hill with no turns or switchbacks.
- About halfway up you will come to a three-way split in the trail. Take the middle path following the Tau and ‘trail 50’ signs. The last twenty minutes or so flatten out as you walk along a short ridge.
- At the top you arrive on the paved SP251 above the Eremo delle Carceri. The trail continues straight ahead but turn right and walk down the road, through a small parking lot and to the stone gates of the hermitage.