Santuario della Madonna dell'Arco, Catholic shrine in Sant'Anastasia, Italy.
The Santuario della Madonna dell'Arco is a Catholic pilgrimage site in Sant'Anastasia near Vesuvius, known for its baroque architecture and Latin cross floor plan. The church has a barrel vault over the main nave, several side chapels along the walls, and a bell tower rising near Monte Somma.
Construction began in 1593 after a series of reported miracles drew pilgrims from the surrounding area. Two years later, Dominican priests assumed management and expanded the complex with residential and educational buildings.
On Easter Monday, groups of pilgrims wear white and blue clothing and walk to the site while singing songs from the 15th century. This tradition connects generations of believers who travel on foot from across the region to renew their vows.
The complex houses an orphanage, a retirement home, a school, and a museum displaying historical votive offerings from several centuries. Visitors can tour these facilities during opening hours and see how religious life takes shape on the grounds.
Every second Sunday in September, the site celebrates the Coronation of the Virgin with a ceremonial illumination of the bell tower. The lighting transforms the tower into a beacon visible for miles, drawing believers from distant towns.
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