Sanctuary of Blessed Panacea al Piano: Faith, History, and Adventure in the Heart of Piedmont

Nestled in the picturesque setting of Piedmont, the Sanctuary of Blessed Panacea al Piano in Quarona (VC) is a place of deep spirituality, rich in history and guardian of centuries-old traditions. A sanctuary that invites not only prayer and reflection but also an adventurous discovery of its origins and hidden treasures.

Architecture and Sacred Art

The sanctuary features a single nave with an apse, topped by a striking vault. Outside, a wide narthex porch welcomes pilgrims, inviting them to cross the threshold of this sacred place. The interior houses artworks from different eras, testifying to popular devotion and the importance of the sanctuary over the centuries.

The Relics of Saint Panacea and Popular Devotion

The sanctuary holds a relic of particular importance: a fragment of the distaff handle with which, according to tradition, Saint Panacea was killed. This relic, transferred from the parish church at the request of the parish priest Bernardino Lancia, biographer of the saint, has contributed to the revival of the cult of Panacea, a figure of a young martyr much loved in the region.

Illustrative image of the Sanctuary of Blessed Panacea al Piano

Devotion to Saint Panacea is also evidenced by the rich collection of ex-votos preserved along the walls of the sanctuary. Painted tablets, goldsmith objects, anthropomorphic figurines, photographs, and other votive gifts tell stories of received graces and unwavering faith, offering a touching glimpse into the life of the local community from the 18th to the 20th century.

An Immersion in History: From Origins to the Present

The roots of the sanctuary date back to the 15th century, although the oldest document preserved in the parish archive dates back to December 4, 1523. This document attests to a bequest with the obligation to celebrate two annual masses: one on the feast day of Blessed Panacea (the first Friday of May) and the other on the day of Saint Bernardino (May 20). This documentary evidence underscores the importance of the sanctuary as a center of worship and community gathering since the early 16th century.

The Legend of the Foundation

Popular tradition tells that the sanctuary arose at the exact spot where the oxen, pulling Panacea’s funeral cart, suddenly stopped, refusing to continue the journey. Since the landowner did not grant permission for burial, the oxen were replaced with two heifers. These, guided by a mysterious force, continued the journey to Ghemme, the place where the mother of young Panacea was buried (the first Friday of May 1384).

Saint Bernardino of Siena: A Saint Linked to Local Devotion

In addition to Saint Panacea, the sanctuary is linked to the figure of Saint Bernardino of Siena, an important Franciscan preacher of the 15th century. His feast, celebrated on May 20, is mentioned in the oldest document related to the sanctuary. The presence of Saint Bernardino in local devotion testifies to the profound influence of the Franciscan order in the region and its work of evangelization and promotion of faith.

Ideas for a Spiritual and Cultural Adventure

A visit to the Sanctuary of Blessed Panacea al Piano can turn into an adventure of discovering the territory, its history, and its traditions. Here are some ideas to enrich your experience:

• Archival Research: Delve into the history of the sanctuary by consulting the parish archive, searching for unpublished documents and testimonies of the past.
• Devotional Paths: Follow in the footsteps of Saint Panacea, visiting the places linked to her life and martyrdom, retracing the path of the heifers that carried her body.
• Territory Exploration: Discover the natural and artistic beauties of the surroundings, immersing yourself in the Piedmontese landscape and savoring the region’s typical products.
• Participation in Festivities: Experience the atmosphere of celebration and devotion during the festivities in honor of Saint Panacea and Saint Bernardino, connecting with the local community and its traditions.

Key Dates in the History of the Sanctuary

• 1409: Date proposed by B. Lancia as the foundation of the oratory.
• December 4, 1523: Bequest with the obligation of two annual masses, the oldest attestation of the oratory.
• 1594: Visit of Bishop Bascapè, to whom we owe the oldest description of the building.
• 1626: Expansion works.
• 1630: Creation of the altarpiece of the main altar.
• 1763: Facade fresco.

Via per Quarona, 13017 Quarona VC, Italy