Santa Maria, Religious sanctuary in Morinesio, Stroppo, Italy

Santa Maria di Morinesio is a sanctuary at about 1,485 metres in the Maira Valley, on the edge of a grassy basin above the valley. The present building dates from the 18th century and is surrounded by two porticoes; its bell tower and pilgrims' lodging were finished at the end of that century. The dome and the exterior frescoes are signed by Francesco Agnesotti of Sampeyre (1882–1960).

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 dome and the exterior frescoes are signed by Francesco Agnesotti, born in Sampeyre in 1882 and dead in Milan in 1960. The paintings are on the outside of the building, not in the interior, so they are seen from the grassy basin that surrounds the sanctuary.

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.