The Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona, located among the imposing rocks of the Adige Valley in Spiazzi di Caprino Veronese, Verona, is one of Italy’s most evocative and spiritually intense pilgrimage sites. This sanctuary, nestled in the rock at 774 meters above sea level, seems to be suspended between heaven and earth, offering visitors a unique experience of devotion, natural beauty, and inner peace.
A Sanctuary Suspended Between Heaven and Earth
Originally known as the Sanctuary of Madonna di Monte Baldo, the site was later named "della Corona" for the crown of mountains that surround it, creating an atmosphere of contemplation and spirituality. The sanctuary's spectacular position, perched on the edge of a precipice, gives visitors the feeling of being suspended between the earthly world and the divine, a place where silence and meditation find their natural home.
History and Mystery: The Origins of the Sanctuary
The origins of the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona are shrouded in mystery and legend. It is said that the place was initially inhabited by a group of Benedictine monks from the monastery of San Zeno in Verona, who chose to live as hermits among these rugged and wild mountains. At the end of the 13th century, a small church was built, inside which was a fresco dedicated to the Madonna, still visible and venerated today.
Over the centuries, the sanctuary underwent several modifications and expansions, passing from the monks to the Knights of Rhodes, and finally taking its definitive form in 1978. A significant moment in the recent history of the sanctuary was the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1988, which led to the recognition of the sanctuary as a Minor Basilica, highlighting its spiritual importance.
The Holy Stairs: A Path of Faith
One of the most revered elements within the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is the Holy Stairs, a reproduction of the steps that Jesus is said to have climbed during the scourging. The faithful who visit the sanctuary often ascend these steps on their knees, as a sign of respect and devotion, following the Stations of the Cross, which are accompanied by artistic depictions of Christ's passion.
In addition to the Holy Stairs, the sanctuary also houses a collection of ex-voto tablets, consisting of 160 small works that represent the graces received through the intercession of Madonna della Corona. These small masterpieces of folk art are touching testimonies of the faith and devotion that the sanctuary has inspired in the hearts of pilgrims over the centuries.
A Unique Experience: How to Reach the Sanctuary
Reaching the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is an integral part of the spiritual experience it offers. The journey begins in the picturesque village of Spiazzi and winds through a twisting road that follows the mountain's curves, passing by each Station of the Cross. This path, immersed in nature and spirituality, culminates in the sight of the sanctuary, which suddenly appears among the rocks, inspiring awe and reverence.
Visitors to the sanctuary should not simply check this destination off a list, but rather immerse themselves in its history, walk the paths leading to the church, breathe the pure mountain air, and let themselves be inspired by the sight of the deep valleys and steep cliffs.
What to See in the Surrounding Area
In addition to the sanctuary, the surrounding region offers many other attractions worth exploring. A short distance away is Arco Castle, a medieval fortress perched on a rocky hill that offers spectacular views of the valley below. The nearby Lake Garda, with its picturesque villages, is another must-see for those visiting the area, offering a perfect mix of natural and cultural beauty.
