Built in a kitsch architectural style, this impressive artificial grotto dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua stands in the middle of the cemetery in the small village of Crupet.
Galerie photos
History & Description
The artificial cave stands between Crupet Church and the former presbytery, now occupied by the Assesse Tourist Office.
In 1900, the parish priest at the time, Father Gérard, asked the villagers to build an imposing structure dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua. The work took three years to complete.
The grotto houses scenes from the life of Saint Anthony, reconstructed using plaster and cast iron statues. The most famous of these is the very impressive (and frightening for younger children) statue of the devil.
Who is Saint Anthony of Padua?
Brother Anthony was born in 1195 in Lisbon and died on June 13, 1231, near Padua in Italy. A renowned preacher, he was canonized in 1232, less than a year after his death.
He is traditionally invoked to find lost or forgotten objects. Be careful not to confuse him with Saint Anthony the Hermit, who is often depicted with a pig at his side.
