The Plaza Dedicated to the "People of the United States"

On September 23, 2021, on the occasion of the 53rd anniversary of the passing of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, representatives of the Municipality of Pietrelcina, Italy, and the Saint Pio Foundation inaugurated a public square in Pietrelcina’s Piana Romana, dedicated to the “People of the United States of America”. 

Timothy Schmalz, one of today’s greatest artists in the Catholic world, created the "I Embrace You,” a life-size sculpture that was installed on the square. This unique initiative paid tribute to the historic role of America in Padre Pio's life, and expressed gratitude for the opportunity provided to Grazio Forgione, father of   Padre Pio, to work and to support the education of his son.

A commemorative plaque installed at the site reads as follows:

“The Municipality of Pietrelcina and the Saint Pio Foundation erect this monument in honor of the United States of America and the American people in gratitude for the opportunity provided to Grazio Forgione, father of Padre Pio, to work and to support the education of his son.”

The site is located near Padre Pio’s birthplace in Pietrelcina, and is continuously open to the public.

The land and sculpture become an important destinations in Pietrelcina, and draws pilgrims from throughout the world.