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The Cave of St. Michael Archangel is a natural grotto, situated on the spur beneath the Castle of Nemi. During the time of Christian persecution, before the town existed, the faithful of the valley probably retreated there to celebrate their rituals in safety and secrecy.
It became a Hermitage between 1600 and 1800. The primitive frescoes with sacred images, almost entirely worn away by time and saltpeter, include a Crucifixion, a saint, perhaps St. Bernardino of Siena, and, naturally, St. Michael Archangelo. There was also a painting of the Castle seen from the lake, as it used to be before the Renaissance era renovation.
Sadly, the many earthquakes have made the site unsafe, so it has been necessary to prevent access with a gate. A restoration project is ongoing.






























