Santuario di Nostra Signora della Guardia, 19th-century sanctuary in Gavi, Italy
The Santuario di Nostra Signora della Guardia sits on Turchini Hill with a Greek cross floor plan that gives it a balanced, symmetrical layout. Red Levanto marble covers the flooring throughout, creating a bright and dignified interior space.
Construction began in 1847 but faced political interruptions that delayed the project for many years. It was finally completed in 1861 through combined efforts of local communities who saw it as an important religious goal.
The interior is dedicated to the veneration of the Virgin Mary, with three altars representing different religious devotions. The wooden statue at the main altar serves as the focal point for pilgrims and visitors who come here to offer their prayers.
The sanctuary is located at Via Valrossara 63 in Gavi in the province of Alessandria and welcomes visitors throughout the year. The main festival is celebrated on August 29th and draws many pilgrims to the site.
The wooden statue of the Virgin Mary inside dates to 1746 and was commissioned as a vow for protection during a hostile siege. Giacomo Bertelli ordered it hoping to keep his home safe from fire during a military conflict.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
