Sanctuary of Saints Faustino and Giovita: A Treasure of Faith and History in Liguria

Nestled in the quiet of the Ligurian countryside, the Sanctuary of Saints Faustino and Giovita in Costa IM represents a place of profound spirituality and historical testimony. Though modest in size, this sanctuary holds centuries of popular devotion and fascinating tales linked to its patron saints.

History and Reconstruction: A Symbol of Resilience

The current structure of the sanctuary is the result of a reconstruction following the devastating earthquake of 1887, which almost completely destroyed it. Only part of the original perimeter walls survived. The rebuilt church features a simple single nave, enriched by three altars that invite prayer and reflection.

The Patron Saints: Faustino and Giovita, Brescian Martyrs

Faustino and Giovita were two noble Brescian brothers, Christian martyrs of the 2nd century. Tradition tells that during the persecutions under Hadrian, they distinguished themselves through their fervent preaching and the conversion of many pagans. Arrested and tortured, they held firm to their faith, ultimately suffering martyrdom. Their relics, kept with veneration, arrived at this sanctuary between the 9th and 10th centuries, likely to protect them from Saracen raids that plagued the Ligurian coasts at the time.

A Sanctuary Rich in History and Popular Traditions

The origins of the sanctuary are lost in the mists of time, with hypotheses dating it back as far as the 7th-8th centuries. Unfortunately, to this day, the church is closed for worship, but its history continues to live on in local memories and traditions. The presence of the relics of Saints Faustino and Giovita makes it a significant place for the Christian faith. The sanctuary was once a reference point for Benedictine monks traveling between Taggia and Pedona, and for this reason, two 16th-century buildings are found nearby, now under the protection of the Superintendency.

Ancient Customs and Rituals: A Dive into the Past

The sanctuary was linked to particular popular customs. For example, it is said there was a pit inside the church where sciatica sufferers would take soil to apply to the painful area, believing in its healing properties. Another tradition saw the inhabitants of Ceriana and Badalucco stopping at the sanctuary during their annual pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of San Giovanni dei Prati near Triora, on the 24th of June each year.

A Place of Research and Spiritual Adventure

Even though currently closed for worship, the Sanctuary of Saints Faustino and Giovita invites spiritual and historical exploration. Its isolated location, immersed in the Ligurian landscape, offers a unique opportunity for a moment of reflection and connection with nature. The search for ancient traces, for stories hidden among the stones, can turn into a true adventure discovering the roots of faith and local culture. Imagine walking the ancient paths that connected the sanctuary to nearby villages, retracing the steps of pilgrims from times past. Observe carefully the vestiges of the original construction, trying to imagine the life and devotion that animated this sacred place centuries ago.

Exploration Suggestions

• In-Depth Historical Research: Delve into the history of Saints Faustino and Giovita, discovering the details of their martyrdom and the spread of their cult.
• Territory Exploration: Organize a hike in the surroundings of the sanctuary, discovering nearby villages and the paths that once connected these places of faith.
• Interview Local Elders: Gather testimonies from the oldest inhabitants, keepers of memories and traditions linked to the sanctuary.
• Naturalistic and Historical Photography: Document the beauty of the landscape and the architectural details of the sanctuary through photography, capturing the soul of this special place.

The Sanctuary of Saints Faustino and Giovita, even in its current silence, continues to speak to those who know how to listen, offering an experience of faith, history, and personal discovery.