Santuario di Valsorda, Religious sanctuary in Valsorda, Garessio, Italy.
The Santuario di Valsorda is a religious sanctuary located in Garessio in the foothills of the Alps, positioned at about 621 meters in elevation on a quiet mountainside. The structure follows a Latin cross design and features a reinforced concrete dome that was added in 1924 to strengthen and modernize the building.
The sanctuary began as a small stone chapel in the 1400s, founded after the region recovered from a devastating plague outbreak. This religious site grew from the community's desire to seek protection and healing through faith during that difficult period.
The sanctuary holds a significant collection of ex-votos that document centuries of local prayer and devotion to religious figures. These votive offerings show how people have sought help and given thanks at this place over generations.
The sanctuary is accessible from Garessio via the SP 213 road and sits in a quiet mountain setting that encourages contemplation and private prayer. The location provides space for religious retreats and allows visitors to spend time in a natural, peaceful environment away from towns.
Inside the building stands a 16th-century triptych showing the Madonna della Grazie alongside Saint Mark and Saint Catherine of Siena. This painting reveals the artistic importance this place once held and its connection to figures venerated across the broader Christian tradition.
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