Vicoforte
Welcome to the Sanctuary of Vicoforte
Hello everyone! Today, I would like to talk to you about the Sanctuary of Vicoforte, one of the most important places of worship in Piedmont. Here, you will experience centuries of history, extraordinary architecture, and a great devotion to the Madonna.
The History of the Sanctuary of Vicoforte
The Sanctuary of Vicoforte has ancient origins dating back to the Middle Ages when a bricklayer erected a modest votive pillar adorned with a fresco depicting the Madonna and Child. In 1594, Deacon Cesare Trombetta began gathering the faithful to build the first chapel around the pillar, which attracted thousands of pilgrims.
Duke Carlo Emanuele I of Savoy, fascinated by the popular devotion, commissioned the construction of a great sanctuary in 1596, which would welcome pilgrims and become the mausoleum of House of Savoy. The court architect Ercole Negro di Sanfront was initially tasked with the project, followed by Ascanio Vittozzi. After Vittozzi's death, construction stalled, resuming only in 1682 when the Virgin of the pillar was crowned as a sign of gratitude for the end of the Salt Wars. The architect Francesco Gallo, encouraged by Filippo Juvarra, resumed the construction from 1728.
Today, the Sanctuary of Vicoforte is a monumental church with an elliptical horizontal section dome, which happens to be the largest of its kind in the world. It has the dignity of a minor basilica.
Visiting the Sanctuary of Vicoforte
If you decide to visit the Sanctuary of Vicoforte, you will find a great variety of attractions to discover. The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament is an essential stop, with its Baroque polychrome marble altar, gold leaf, and vault frescoed by Claudio Francesco Beaumont. The Chapel of the Holy Trinity, which dominates the left side of the nave, is known for its paintings, including those by Antonio Caronzio and Cesare Gamba.
The Cemetery of Benefactors represents a devout testimony to the gratitude of the Sanctuary's faithful for anyone who contributed to its construction. The tombs are grouped together in a kind of garden, with marble plaques remembering the names of the recipients, in a symbolism that conveys the sense of delicacy of memory.
Finally, the Chapel of the Holy Crucifix presents a great artwork, the Cross of Monaco, dating back to 1701.
Worship and Devotion
Every year, numerous religious festivals are celebrated in Vicoforte, including the Fair of Saint John, which takes place on the second Sunday of June, and the Fair of Madalena, on July 22. The most anticipated moment by the faithful is undoubtedly the September pilgrimage, when hundreds of people go to the Sanctuary out of devotion.
The Sanctuary of Vicoforte represents an important stop for all those seeking a deep faith and great devotion to the Madonna.
Conclusion
I hope this brief introduction has sparked your curiosity to visit the Sanctuary of Vicoforte. Here, you can immerse yourself in a unique spiritual experience, between history, art, architecture, and faith.
Remember to respect the place of worship and contribute to its preservation for future generations. Thank you for reading my article, and safe travels to all!
