Santuario di Nostra Signora della Guardia, Catholic shrine in Velva, Italy
The Santuario di Nostra Signora della Guardia is a baroque shrine located in Castiglione Chiavarese in the Liguria region. Inside stands a pipe organ built in 1925 and a bell tower that holds four tuned bells.
Construction began in the 19th century under architect Maurizio Dufour, who designed numerous buildings throughout Genoa and Liguria. The pipe organ received expansions in 1973, showing how the building was maintained over time.
The wooden statue of Madonna della Guardia dominates the interior space and continues to draw pilgrims who come to pray at this shrine. The figure remains the focal point for visitors seeking spiritual connection.
The shrine sits in the Ligurian mountains and is best reached on foot as vehicle access can be challenging. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and allow time for the climb.
The bell tower holds four bells, two of which still bear bullet holes from World War II combat. These marks serve as silent reminders of the conflict that touched even this remote mountain location.
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