Santa Maria

Santa Maria is a sanctuary located at 1400 meters elevation in Valle Maira, built with stone portals and round columns supporting wide roof structures. The building combines simple forms with crafted details typical of mountain churches in this region.

It began as a small chapel in the 14th century, received official recognition in 1511, and underwent major expansion during the 1700s. This growth shows how it developed from a modest beginning into an important pilgrimage destination.

The interior frescoes were painted by Francesco Agnesotti from a nearby village, showing how local artists contributed to religious spaces in the region. These wall paintings reflect the artistic traditions that developed in the Piedmont mountains.

The sanctuary offers accommodation on site, and visitors can request information or make arrangements by phone. Because of its high elevation location, visits are best made during good weather with appropriate mountain gear.

From this location, visitors can see the entire Maira Valley and Cuneo plains on clear days, offering a sweeping view of the surrounding landscape. This vantage point makes the sanctuary a place where built structures meet natural geography.