Shrine of Madonna della Ceriola

The origins of the Shrine of Madonna della Ceriola date back around the mid-5th century when Saint Vigilio, bishop of Brescia, introduced Christianity into the Lake Iseo area, thereby abolishing the worship of the pagan goddess Isis and spreading the faith in Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary.

Saint Vigilio built a small chapel on the top of the island and dedicated it to the Virgin Mary as a symbol of purification from pagan superstitions and of the new light of Christianity. This small church was the first parish church of the island and was called Santa Maria de curis, as shown in the list of possessions of the Diocese of Brescia, which dates back to 1410. It was also the first church of the lake to be dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Later it was named Madonna della Ceriola, probably after the image of the Virgin (12th century) carved in a stump of cerro (Turkey oak). The Virgin was depicted seated on a throne, wearing a wide mantle and holding Baby Jesus.

Present-day building was fulfilled in the 16th century, but its inner part was modified the following century by the insertion of a new chancel. The bell tower was built in 1750.

References:

• visitmonteisola.it

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Monte Isola, Italy

Details

Founded: 16th century
Category: Religious sites in Italy