Santuario Madonna del Tindari, Minor basilica and shrine in Tindari, Patti, Italy

The Santuario Madonna del Tindari is a minor basilica on the summit of the Tindari hill in Patti, built of pinkish stone and brick. Its tall facade has a wide arched window framed by mosaic, a mosaic panel above, and three open arches crowned by two statues; a small columned dome with a cross rises behind on the left. The building covers the area of the primitive castle of Tindari, and an orange building with arched windows adjoins it.

A chapel at this site dating from the 16th century eventually became too small to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims visiting the shrine. Construction of a larger modern basilica began in the 1950s and was completed in 1979 to better serve the faithful.

The Black Madonna statue draws pilgrims from across Sicily who come to pray and light candles as acts of devotion. For many locals, this shrine holds deep spiritual meaning passed down through generations of their families.

The sanctuary sits atop a hillside that requires climbing a series of steps to reach the main building and entrance. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow extra time for the climb, especially during warm months.

The wooden Black Madonna kept here dates from between the late 8th and early 9th century, a Theotókos Odigitria shown as a queen with the child Jesus blessing on her lap. An inscription beneath the throne reads "Nigra Sum Sed Formosa", from the Song of Songs: "I am black but beautiful".