Church of San Silvestro (Acquasanta Terme)

History of the Church of San Silvestro in Acquasanta Terme

The year of construction, 1526, can be read in the date carved on the interior pilaster strips. The restoration dates from 1947.

The church belongs to a village that counted for a great deal in the 15th century. The Ascoli land register of 1458 documents the wealth and prestige of Rocchetta in the 15th century. The village was linked to Farfa and was the seat of a church with a resident priest, with revenues, income and tithes.

What to see at the Church of San Silvestro

The most recognizable detail is the date 1526 carved on the interior pilaster strips, which identifies the building as 16th-century.

The setting is part of the visit. Along the same road is the cemetery of the two little villages, while the other church, the one inside the village of Rocchetta, has been reduced to a heap of rubble.

Visiting the Church of San Silvestro

The church can be reached on foot or by car along an unpaved gravel road. From Agore, continue a short way further toward Rocchetta.

The interior may not be accessible: before setting out, it is worth checking whether the church is open. It is best regarded as a stop to be appreciated mainly from outside. It is also worth checking the weather before leaving, because the final stretch is on a dirt surface.

Where the Church of San Silvestro is located

The church is in the locality of Rocchetta, a hamlet of Acquasanta Terme. The village is now completely abandoned and uninhabited. It should not be confused with the church of San Silvestro Papa in Arquata del Tronto, which is a different building.

Around the Church of San Silvestro

The surroundings include other places of the Acquasanta area. From Poggio Rocchetta and Agore a route leads to the Grotta del Petrienno, a large cave with rough stone huts, reached by passing beneath a waterfall. In Poggio Rocchetta the village church is dedicated to San Donato.

In Rocchetta only ruins remain: on the eastern side are the remains of houses built against sandstone ledges, reached by dizzying paths. Collapses are frequent and few buildings are still standing, so caution is needed. To compare other places of worship in the area, see churches in the Sibillini Mountains.