()

It consists of three principal parts:

1. The Thunderbolt Pit ()

   That is how the most ancient part of the Sanctuary is traditionally called. It can be reached either from the southern portico through a special door or directly through the Main Chapel. But first you have to pass through a short, narrow tunnel carved in the rock.
   

   According to popular tradition, when Elijah fled for his life from Jezebel’s persecution, he sought asylum in a little natural cave near Maarra. As the soldiers of the queen were about to catch him, God sent a thunderbolt which hit the top of the mount and created a passage down to its bottom, from which Elijah escaped. The queen’s soldiers were confused: did Elijah flee from the top or from the bottom of the Mount? Disappointed, they returned empty-handed to their mistress. From time immemorial, the faithful of Maarra hold that little cave as sacred and frequently visit it in honor of their holy patron.

   Another popular tradition has it that St. Elias fled riding a miraculous horse which left the traces of its hoofs printed on the rock as it frantically ran to save its master.