Lourdes grotto, Religious grotto in Mezzocorona, Italy.
Description
The Lourdes grotto is a cave shrine built into the mountain wall above Mezzocorona, surrounded by forest and natural rock formations. Inside stands a statue of Mary, creating a place of prayer that mirrors the original sanctuary of Lourdes in France.
History
Parish priest Antonio Leonardi transformed the natural cave into a sanctuary in 1911 to honor the Lourdes apparitions. The first statue was installed in 1915, establishing the site as a religious center for local worship.
Culture
The site draws local visitors who come to pray and reflect, especially during the annual May procession when the community gathers to honor Mary. This ritual has become part of the town's religious identity and brings people together around shared faith.
Practical
Access to the grotto is via the 'Laiti' trail, a forest path built in 1913 that starts from the town center and is easy to navigate. The walk is manageable for most visitors and rewards them with views of the surrounding landscape.
Did you know?
The 2003 restoration added the Rosary Path, a special forest route with dedicated meditation spots placed at intervals leading to the grotto. This addition transformed the walk itself into part of the spiritual experience.
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