Sacro Monte di Varallo

The Sacro Monte contains 45 chapels with polychrome sculptures and frescoes depicting biblical scenes across a natural terraced landscape at 600 meters elevation.

Franciscan monk Bernardino Caimi established this religious site in 1481 as a representation of Jerusalem for those unable to make the journey to the Holy Land.

Local artists and craftsmen from Piedmont created detailed life-sized statues and paintings within each chapel, representing scenes from the life of Jesus Christ.

The complete visit of all chapels requires three hours, with marked paths connecting each structure throughout the religious complex on the mountainside.

The chapels form two distinct zones: a green area showing Christ's early life and an urban section at the summit recreating Jerusalem's architecture.

Location: Varallo Sesia

Inception: 1481

Architects: Bernardino Caimi

Architectural style: mannerism

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Part of: Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy

Phone: +39016351131

Email: info@sacromontevarallo.it

Website: http://sacromontedivarallo.it

GPS coordinates: 45.81886,8.25578

Latest update: May 27, 2025 09:49