Description
The Marian shrine of Valsolda, among miracles, baroque art and the devotion of Carlo Borromeo
The Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Caravina stands in a panoramic position along the path that goes from Cressogno towards the Cima di Porlezza, in the territory of Valsolda. Built starting in 1567, the sanctuary houses a 16th-century image of the Pietà, believed to be miraculous since 1562, when two women saw it weep. The canonical investigation, commissioned by Cardinal Carlo Borromeo, confirmed the authenticity of the miracle, sparking a long tradition of pilgrimages and the construction of the sacred building we admire today.
In brief
The Caravina Sanctuary is one of the most striking places of worship in Valsolda. Reachable on foot from Cressogno, it offers an experience that combines the charm of walking in nature with the discovery of an artistic heritage of great value: from the Baroque frescoes by Isidoro Bianchi to the marble altar by Giovanni Albuzzi and the 17th-century organ by Michele Carboni. The name “Caravina” is said to derive from the dialectal “gravina,” referring to the rocky and unstable terrain of the area.
History
The origin of the shrine is linked to a rural chapel dedicated to Our Lady, inside which an image of the Pieta dating back to the early 16th century was kept. On May 11, 1562, two women witnessed the tearing of the holy image. Cardinal Carlo Borromeo initiated a canonical investigation that confirmed the authenticity of the miracle, triggering a stream of pilgrimages and the decision to build a proper shrine.
Construction was completed in 1567 based on a design by architect Mariani, known as “il Sabba.” Between 1639 and 1647 the building underwent major renovations directed by Carlo Buzzi, architect of Milan Cathedral. In 1865-1866 the neoclassical facade was added, the work of Carlo Vicini.
From 1960 to 2003, the shrine was entrusted to the Betharram Fathers at the behest of then Cardinal Montini, the future Pope Paul VI.
Art and Architecture
The interior of the sanctuary is richly decorated. Between 1648 and 1657, Isidoro Bianchi frescoed the side chapels: the Chapel of the Cordiglieri (left) and the Chapel of the Carmelites (right), also leaving his own self-portrait among the works.
The vault was frescoed in the late 19th century by Antonio Sibella, with a cycle depicting Angels, Evangelists, Virtues and Allegories. The marble high altar, made in 1736 by Giovanni Albuzzi, holds the venerated original miraculous image.
Along the nave are canvases by Giovanni Battista Pozzo and Rocco Comanedi, depicting Marian themes in late Baroque and Rococo styles.
The Historical Organ
The sanctuary organ was made in 1675 by Michele Carboni. The case and chancel were created the following year, in 1676, by Francesco Bellotti. The instrument represents a valuable testimony to the organ-making tradition of the area.
How to get there
The sanctuary can be reached either on foot, via the path from Cressogno up to the Cima di Porlezza, or by car. Parking is available in the immediate vicinity of the sanctuary. The footpath winds its way through a distinctive rocky landscape, hence the very name of the holy place.
Gallery
