Santissimo Crocifisso, Catholic sanctuary in Como, Italy.
Santissimo Crocifisso is a church in Como built with a single nave in the shape of a Latin cross, creating a focused interior space for worship. The structure blends Italian Neoclassical design with baroque revival details throughout.
The building started in 1236 as Chiesa della Santissima Annunciata, built by canon Erasmo Campanacci on marshy terrain. Over time it evolved and was reshaped through the arrival of pilgrims and their religious contributions.
The sanctuary takes its name from the crucifix brought by European pilgrims returning from Rome in 1399, which became the spiritual focus of the place. This sacred object remains at the heart of devotional life here.
The sanctuary is open during the day with regular visiting hours on weekdays and extended access on weekends. Visitors should be aware that prayer times may affect entry and modest dress is expected.
The sanctuary was built on former marshland, a challenging location that required determination to develop into a place of worship. This choice of site reflects the founders' resolve to establish a sacred space despite difficult geographical conditions.
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