If you are planning a visit to Gaeta between late May and June, the Montagna Spaccata and the Grotta del Turco are definitely at the top of your must-see list. Situated on the Monte Orlando promontory, this complex is one of the most evocative and visited places in the entire Riviera di Ulisse.
To help you best plan your itinerary, we have gathered all the latest official information regarding opening hours and access to the different areas of the Sanctuary.
⚠️ Important Notice: Temporary Closure of the Percorso Sacro
The Sanctuary management has announced a temporary adjustment to allow for site maintenance. The Grotta del Turco is currently accessible only up to the first terrace, at the 65th step: the full staircase down to the sea cannot be walked. The rest of the complex remains open as usual. Before setting off, it is advisable to check for the latest updates: the Sanctuary management may issue further changes.
The “Percorso Sacro” (Sacred Path) refers to the striking central fissure in the rock (where you walk along the Via Crucis, view the “Mano del Turco” imprinted in stone, and reach the Cappella di San Filippo Neri). But don’t worry: your trip to Gaeta is completely safe!
✅ What REMAINS OPEN: Grotta del Turco and the Sanctuary
The key news for all visitors and tourists is that the rest of the complex remains open and accessible as usual during standard operating hours.
During this period, you will still be able to admire:
- The Grotta del Turco: The famous and spectacular staircase descending towards the sea, nestled between rock walls, will be open. You can walk down the steps to the permitted limit and enjoy one of Italy’s most photographed panoramas.
- The Santuario della SS. Trinità: The main church, built in the 11th century, and the outdoor areas of the panoramic square remain open to worshippers and visitors.
🕒 Opening Hours (Sanctuary and Grotta del Turco)
The two areas have different schedules (subject to change during religious services):
- Montagna Spaccata: 9:00 – 12:00 and 14:30 – 19:00, Tuesday to Sunday.
- Grotta del Turco: 9:00 – 11:45 and 14:30 – 18:30, Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays.
We recommend arriving slightly ahead of closing time so you can enjoy your descent into the Grotta del Turco in complete relaxation.
Opening hours for Montagna Spaccata and Grotta del Turco
The two routes have different operating hours: Grotta del Turco closes earlier. Monday is the closing day for both.
| Route | Days | Morning | Afternoon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montagna Spaccata | Tuesday to Sunday | 9:00 – 12:00 | 14:30 – 19:00 |
| Grotta del Turco | Tuesday to Sunday | 9:00 – 11:45 | 14:30 – 18:30 |
| Monday: closed | |||
How much does it cost to enter Montagna Spaccata?
There is no fixed admission ticket: at the Sanctuary, a free donation is requested to help cover the site’s maintenance costs. Everyone donates what they can.
Where is the Sanctuary located?
The address is Via Santissima Trinità 3, 04024 Gaeta (LT), on the Monte Orlando promontory. For the nearest parking, see our parking guide for Gaeta.
How far down can you go into the Grotta del Turco?
Currently, the descent is allowed up to the first terrace, at the 65th step. From there, you can still view the fissure over the sea; the full staircase is not walkable.
Hours verified on the official Sanctuary website on 27 luglio 2026. They may vary during religious ceremonies: if your trip relies on this visit, it is advisable to check the day before.
🚦 Plan your visit with Enea
Looking for details on where to park near Monte Orlando, or curious to discover what other wonders await in Gaeta after visiting the Sanctuary? Ask our virtual assistant Enea! You will find him on the homepage of our portal: he will recommend nearby parking options, restaurants, and scenic walking routes in real time.
