Sacro Monte di Viggiano, Regional sanctuary at 1725m on Mount Viggiano, Italy
Sacro Monte di Viggiano is a sanctuary at 1725 m (5,659 ft) elevation holding a seated Black Madonna statue with child Jesus, covered in pure gold leaf. The building sits atop the mountain peak and remains accessible to pilgrims throughout the year from the town below.
In the 14th century, shepherds discovered the sacred statue after witnessing mysterious lights on the mountain peak. This finding transformed the location into a pilgrimage destination and led to the sanctuary's establishment.
The Black Madonna statue moves twice yearly between the mountain sanctuary and the town church during celebrations in May and September, marking important religious moments for the community. Visitors can witness these processions as part of the local spiritual calendar.
Access is by foot trail from town through forest, marked with rest stops along the way. Wear sturdy shoes and start early in the day to have adequate daylight for the climb.
Behind the main altar lies the original cavity where the statue was found, serving as its storage place from May to September when it rests here. Visitors can see this historic discovery site within the sanctuary.
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