The Sanctuary of la Verna is a monastic complex perched on the limestone cliffs of Monte Penna within the Appenine Mountains in the Italian province of Arezzo.  The buildings are reached after a steep ascent, and found between sloping ridges in the thick of a monumental forest.  It is a destination for pilgrims who wish to see where St. Francis of Assisi received the stigmata.  Interlocking religious buildings have grown up around the original church making La Verna the most important place of devotion for Franciscans.									