Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona

Nestled atop a steep cliff in the Veneto region of Italy, the Madonna della Corona sanctuary is a hidden gem. Built into a vertical cliff face on Italy’s Mount Baldo in front of Valdadige it looks as though it is nearly suspended in mid-air. 

The sanctuary has a long and fascinating history dating back to the 16th century. According to legend, a shepherd boy found a painting of the Virgin Mary in a nearby cave and brought it to the local priest. The painting was then placed in a small chapel built on the site, and the Madonna della Corona became a popular destination for pilgrims. Over the centuries, the sanctuary was expanded and renovated, with the current church and monastery built in the 20th century.

The Madonna della Corona’s unique location on a cliff has made it a challenging site to build and maintain. The church and monastery were designed by the architect Alberto Luzzo, who created a modernist structure that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The sanctuary’s most striking feature is its stunning glass facade, which offers panoramic views of the mountains and valleys below. Inside, visitors can admire the intricate wood carvings, frescoes, and sculptures that adorn the walls and altars.

Address
Località Gabbiola 2, Ferrara di Monte Baldo, Italy

Established
17th century