Ghisallo, Mountain pass in Magreglio, Italy.
Ghisallo is a mountain pass reaching 754 meters that links the provinces of Lecco and Como through winding roads in northern Italy. The route passes through varied terrain with several steep sections that demand steady climbing.
The pass takes its name from a medieval legend where Count Ghisallo faced bandits and found refuge at a shrine displaying an image of the Virgin Mary. The site later became significant in cycling history, drawing thousands of riders over the decades.
The small chapel here holds racing bikes and competition jerseys left behind by cyclists who treat this place as a spiritual location. Many riders stop to light a candle or leave a personal memento.
You can reach the summit using three different routes starting from Bellagio, Erba, or Onno, ranging from 10 to 16 kilometers long. The road remains accessible year-round, but winter snow and ice can make conditions more challenging.
An eternal flame burns continuously at the shrine in memory of cyclists who lost their lives. The adjacent museum also displays the damaged bicycle of the late rider Fabio Casartelli as a memorial.
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