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The history of the Sacred Mountains begins in the 15th century when the Franciscan Order contributed to the development of these sites as scenic representations of the Stations of the Cross and the Passion of Christ. Over the ensuing centuries, chapels and architectural complexes were expanded and enriched by other religious congregations, also depicting stories from the Bible.
The Sacred Mountain of Varallo, the oldest of them all, was founded by San Bernardino Caimi in the mid-15th century. Other significant Sacred Mountains include the Sacred Mountain of Varese, the Sacred Mountain of Orta, the Sacred Mountain of Crea, and the Sacred Mountain of Oropa.
These complexes embody a perfect symbiosis of art and faith, with the chapels hosting artworks of great value, a testament to the skill of artists from that era. Each chapel is a unique masterpiece, contributing to an extraordinary spiritual experience. Due to their beauty and deep connection with faith, the Sacred Mountains continue to enchant and inspire visitors from around the world.
The **Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy** are a collection of nine religious complexes located in the regions of Piedmont and Lombardy, Italy. These pilgrimage sites, built between the 16th and 17th centuries, represent an extraordinary example of the integration of natural landscape, architecture, and sacred art. In 2003, the Sacri Monti were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their beauty and spiritual significance.
The Sacri Monti were constructed to offer pilgrims an alternative to Jerusalem during a time when crusades and wars made travel to the Holy Land dangerous and difficult. These complexes were designed as "New Jerusalems," depicting the lives of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the Saints through chapels and sculptural groups.
Each Sacro Monte consists of a series of chapels following an ascending path, both physical and spiritual, often culminating in a sanctuary or church. The paths are set within breathtaking natural landscapes, adding a contemplative and spiritual dimension to the pilgrimage experience.
Below are the nine Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy, each with its unique characteristics and spiritual significance.
The **Sacro Monte of Varallo** is the oldest of the Sacri Monti, started in 1486. Located in the province of Vercelli, Piedmont, it consists of 45 chapels and over 800 polychrome statues representing the life of Christ and scenes from the New Testament.
Located in the province of Alessandria, Piedmont, the **Sacro Monte of Crea** is part of the Parco Naturale del Sacro Monte di Crea. Built in 1589, it consists of 23 chapels and five hermitages dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the Mysteries of the Rosary.
Located on Lake Orta, in the province of Novara, the **Sacro Monte of Orta** is dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. Begun in 1590, the complex consists of 20 chapels, each illustrating scenes from the saint’s life through frescoes and statues.
The **Sacro Monte of Oropa** is located in the province of Biella, Piedmont, and is dedicated to the Black Madonna of Oropa. Begun in the 17th century, the complex consists of 12 chapels that narrate the life of the Virgin Mary through biblical scenes.
Located in the province of Turin, Piedmont, the **Sacro Monte of Belmonte** is set within an unspoiled natural environment. Composed of 13 chapels, the devotional path follows the Stations of the Cross and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The **Sacro Monte of Ghiffa** is located on the Piedmontese shore of Lake Maggiore, in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola. The complex consists of three chapels and a sanctuary dedicated to the Trinity, surrounded by a protected natural park.
Located in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, the **Sacro Monte of Domodossola** is a pilgrimage path dedicated to Mount Calvary. The complex includes 15 chapels representing the Stations of the Cross, surrounded by a nature reserve.
The **Sacro Monte of Ossuccio** is located in Lombardy, on the western shore of Lake Como. The path consists of 15 chapels dedicated to the Mysteries of the Rosary and culminates at the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Succour, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The **Sacro Monte of Varese** is one of the best-known Sacri Monti in Lombardy. The 2-km-long devotional path consists of 14 chapels representing the Mysteries of the Rosary and culminates in the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte.
The Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy are an exceptional example of sacred art and religious devotion, reflecting the influence of the Council of Trent and the Catholic Church’s response to the Protestant Reformation. These complexes offer a pilgrimage experience that combines spirituality, art, and nature.
The chapels are enriched with frescoes and sculptures of great artistic value, created by some of the most important artists of the time. The Sacri Monti represent an important cultural and religious heritage, continuing to attract pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
In 2003, the **Sacri Monti** of Piedmont and Lombardy were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition underscores the significance of these sites as expressions of religious devotion and harmonious integration of art and natural landscape.
The Sacri Monti are considered a model of religious architecture, influencing the construction of similar complexes in Europe and around the world. They continue to be important pilgrimage destinations and a reference point for the Catholic faith.
The Sacri Monti offer a unique experience of spirituality and natural beauty, perfect for those seeking a path of faith, history, and art. Each Sacro Monte is open to the public and offers various activities and itineraries for visitors.
The Sacri Monti are easily accessible from various locations in Italy, with transportation options that include trains, buses, and cars:
The Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy are a heritage of extraordinary beauty and significance, blending faith, art, and nature into a unique experience. These sites are a testament to the religious devotion and artistic ingenuity of their era, offering a spiritual and cultural journey that continues to inspire pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
Visiting the Sacri Monti is an opportunity to explore Italy's spiritual and cultural roots, immersing yourself in an atmosphere of peace and contemplation that invites reflection and discovery.
