Sacro Monte di Varese

Sacro Monte di Varese is a sanctuary featuring fourteen chapels spread across a two-kilometer cobblestone path that climbs 600 meters up a mountain. The path leads upward to the summit sanctuary, where the final chapels stand and views of the surrounding landscape open up.

The sanctuary originated in the fourth century from a small chapel built by Sant'Ambrogio and was expanded into a Romanesque sanctuary by the eleventh century. The fourteen chapels visible today were added later and reflect shifts in faith and artistic expression over time.

Each chapel along the path represents a Mystery of the Rosary and displays architectural styles ranging from Mannerism to Baroque, created by different Italian artists. Together, these buildings guide visitors through sacred stations while remaining integrated with the mountain environment.

Visitors can reach the mountain through hiking trails or by driving up, with a funicular railway also operating on weekends. The ascent takes time and effort, but the path is walkable and well-maintained, regardless of which route you choose.

The chapels were specifically designed to be viewed from the exterior, with their architecture complementing rather than overwhelming the natural mountain setting. This approach is unusual in the design of pilgrimage sites and sets this place apart.

Location: Varese

Inception: 1623

Architects: Giuseppe Bernascone

Official opening: 1623

Architectural style: Mannerist architecture

Part of: Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy

Address: Via del Santuario

Website: http://sacromontedivarese.it

GPS coordinates: 45.86173,8.79249

Latest update: December 20, 2025 01:29