Madonna delle Grazie Sanctuary, Catholic sanctuary in Spezzano Albanese, Italy.
Madonna delle Grazie Sanctuary is a church building in Spezzano Albanese situated on a plateau and marked by three wrought iron entrance gates constructed in 1930. The interior features two side naves and a bell tower that rise above the surrounding landscape.
The site originated in 1470 when Albanian refugees established themselves in the area after receiving permission from Giuseppe Vespasiano Spinelli to settle. The sanctuary developed from this initial settlement and the religious traditions that grew from the community.
The local Arbreshe community maintains a deep connection to the sanctuary through Easter Monday celebrations that feature traditional processions and gatherings. These occasions reflect how the place remains central to local religious and cultural identity.
The sanctuary sits on elevated ground and is best explored on foot to fully appreciate the iron gates and surrounding terrain. Visitors will find regular worship services throughout the year, with special observances occurring during the Lenten and Easter periods.
Local tradition holds that two shepherds witnessed the Virgin Mary requesting the construction of a chapel, which eventually grew into this sanctuary. This reported appearance became the founding narrative that shaped devotion at the site for centuries to come.
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