Eremo di Bismantova, Church building in Castelnovo ne' Monti, Italy

The Eremo di Bismantova is a church standing at the base of a massive limestone plateau in the Reggiano Apennines. The structure sits nestled within steep rock walls and offers views across the surrounding mountainous terrain.

A first place of worship on the site dates to the 15th century, when it was dedicated to the Santissimo Salvatore. The small oratory was enlarged by the 17th century with two side altars, then completely rebuilt between 1617 and 1619, when the dedication is thought to have changed to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. The building was enlarged again in 1943, with a portico and rose window added to the facade.

The church is also known as the sanctuary of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a dedication it likely took when it was rebuilt between 1617 and 1619. In its apse is a 15th-century fresco of the Virgin nursing the Child, called the Madonna di Bismantova, carried in procession each May. Since 2001 it has been a diocesan Marian sanctuary.

The hermitage can be reached via Via Bismantova in Castelnovo ne' Monti, with parking available near the church. Visitors should prepare for steep paths and changing mountain weather conditions when planning their visit.

The 15th-century fresco in the apse, known as the Madonna di Bismantova, shows the Virgin nursing the Child and is the focus of a pilgrimage held every May. The church also keeps 15th-century frescoes in its sacristy.