Montovolo, Mountain summit in Grizzana Morandi, Italy

Montovolo is a mountain summit in the municipality of Grizzana Morandi, in the northern Apennines of the Emilia-Romagna region. It sits at around 962 meters above sea level and can be reached by several trails that pass through wooded areas and open rocky terrain.

The area around Montovolo was settled in the Middle Ages, and the summit served as a reference point for communities spread across the Apennine valleys. The sanctuary at the top dates back to medieval times and was supported over the centuries by local lords and the Church.

The sanctuary is dedicated to Santa Maria della Consolazione, and the mountain's name likely comes from its round, egg-like shape. The 15th-century frescoes inside are devotional works, and a working sundial can be seen on the bell tower. Nearby, the Oratorio di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, visitable by reservation, holds 15th-century frescoes by Tuscan painters showing Saint Catherine, a Crucifixion and a Last Judgment.

The most common starting point is near the Belvedere bus stop on line 829, from which the main trail entrance is only a short walk away. Sturdy footwear is a good idea, as some sections of the path cross uneven rocky ground.

The mountain's name comes from its round, massive profile, which was thought to resemble an egg. The protected park around Montovolo and Monte Vigese covers about 34 hectares and was established in 1972, preserving black hornbeam and chestnut woods.