Madonna dell'Acqua, Roman Catholic sanctuary in Molino Vecchio, Valbrevenna, Italy.
Madonna dell'Acqua is a sanctuary in Molino Vecchio situated near the Brevenna stream, featuring a single-nave design with a portico that opens toward the water and houses a marble statue of Madonna with Child. The structure stands next to a historic 1908 hospice building originally built to shelter pilgrims.
The sanctuary originated after a miraculous healing during the 1584 plague epidemic, when locals first built a wooden chapel near the sacred spring. The current stone building was constructed in 1744 to replace the original wooden structure.
The sanctuary serves as a gathering place for the Valbrevenna community, especially on July 2nd when visitors from nearby villages come together to honor the sacred spring and Madonna. This devotion to the water and its healing properties has remained a central part of local tradition for centuries.
The sanctuary is accessible via the road connecting Busalla and Casella along the Brevenna stream, with parking spaces available nearby. Sturdy footwear is recommended since the area near the water can be slippery and the terrain around the spring requires careful footing.
The sanctuary takes its name from the sacred water of the spring, which according to tradition is honored for its healing properties. Many visitors still collect water from the source today, believing in the connection between the place and the miracles attributed to the plague era.
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