Case file · Folklore / legend
The Sibyl's cave, Monti Sibillini
In May 1420 the French writer Antoine de la Sale climbed to the Grotta della Sibilla above Montemonaco and later wrote of a hidden queen's paradise inside; nearby Lake Pilato was said to hold Pontius Pilate's body and to attract necromancers.
1420 CE · 42.86, 13.27 · status: legend
The account
The tale fed the German Venusberg (Tannhäuser) legend. Norcia's authorities set up gallows to deter magicians visiting the lake.
The sceptical view
The cave entrance has collapsed; folklore, not events.