The Sanctuary of Santo Deserto in Cuasso al Monte: History, Faith, and Adventure

Nestled in the greenery of the Varese hills, the Sanctuary of Santo Deserto, located in Cuasso al Monte, holds a centuries-old history of faith, devotion, and transformation. A place that, despite its metamorphoses, continues to evoke an atmosphere of spirituality and reflection, inviting visitors on an inner journey and the discovery of a unique cultural heritage.

History and Origins of the Sanctuary

The history of Santo Deserto dates back to the 17th century, specifically to 1635, when the Discalced Carmelites of the Province of Sant’Angelo in Lombardy began constructing a convent with a church and hermitages. This initiative was made possible by the generous donation of two thousand Milanese perches by Counts Gianpietro and Francesco Cicogna, which allowed the Carmelites to create a place of prayer and seclusion.

As evidenced by the defunct land registry map, the church stood at the northwestern end of the convent. Its strategic location, immersed in nature, fostered solitude and contemplation, essential elements of Carmelite spirituality.

Over the centuries, the complex underwent several modifications and expansions, including those commissioned by Prior Father Fra Giuseppe Fortunato di Santa Chiara between 1721 and 1722. The jurisdiction of the Discalced Carmelites lasted until 1798, when Joseph II of Austria suppressed the convent, converting the complex into private property owned by the Dandolo family.

The Transformations of Santo Deserto

The suppression of the convent marked the beginning of a period of change for Santo Deserto. After serving as a private residence, the complex was purchased in 1906 by Father Gerardo Beccaro, who transformed it into an agricultural colony for abandoned children. During this time, significant alterations were made, including the demolition of the two superimposed churches in 1918.

Later, in 1971, the entire complex was handed over to the military and the Italian Red Cross, which established a climatic institute in Cuasso al Monte. In 1973, it became a long-term care hospital and, in 1980, Hospital Facility No. 4 of the Province of Varese. Despite these transformations, the place retained an aura of sacredness and historical memory.

Worship and Relics

An important aspect of Santo Deserto’s history is tied to the figure of the Venerable Father Damasceno, whose body was found incorrupt many years after his death. This event helped make the site a fervent center of worship. The bones of Father Damasceno became a venerated relic, attracting pilgrims and devotees.

Another object of devotion in the sanctuary was a fresco depicting the Virgin of Carmel. It is believed to be the same fresco still present in the rural chapel of Borgnana, portraying the Blessed Virgin in Carmelite attire. This painting, used between 1635 and 1655, testifies to the deep Marian devotion of the Discalced Carmelites.

Adventure and Discovery: A Journey into the Past

Today, Santo Deserto stands as a place rich in history and charm, inviting visitors to an experience of discovery and adventure. Although only two sides of the former convent remain—now housing the Italian Red Cross and Hospital Facility No. 4 of Varese—the site retains traces of its glorious past. Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient convent, imagining the lives of the Discalced Carmelites and the spirituality that permeated the place.

A fascinating adventure could involve virtually reconstructing the original complex based on historical maps and contemporary descriptions. One could also organize a visit to the rural chapel of Borgnana to admire the fresco of the Virgin of Carmel and envision it in the context of the original sanctuary. Additionally, delving into the history of the Cicogna family, who contributed to the creation of Santo Deserto, and the Carmelites’ relationship with the local population could offer further insights.

Essential Timeline

• 1619: Meeting of the heads of households from Cuasso al Monte, Cuasso al Piano, and Canagnano to arrange the donation to the Discalced Carmelites.
• 1632: Deed of donation drafted by notary Angelo Maria Castiglioni.
• 1635: Construction of the Deserto begins.
• 1668: Approval of the Instructiones by the general prefect Fra Filippo della Santissima Trinità.
• 1721-22: Modifications commissioned by Prior Father Fra Giuseppe Fortunato di Santa Chiara.
• 1798: Suppression of the convent and transfer to private ownership by the Dandolo family.
• 1906: Father Gerardo Beccaro purchases the complex and converts it into an agricultural colony.
• 1918: Demolition of the two superimposed churches.
• 1971: The complex is handed over to the military and the Italian Red Cross.
• 1973: It becomes the hospital of Cuasso al Monte.
• 1980: It becomes Hospital Facility No. 4 of the Province of Varese.
• 1991: Celebrations for the 350th anniversary of its founding.

A Place of Memory and Reflection

The Sanctuary of Santo Deserto, despite its transformations, remains a place of memory and reflection, inviting visitors to rediscover the roots of faith and local history. A place where Christian devotion intertwines with the beauty of the landscape and the richness of cultural heritage, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.

21050 Cavagnano VA, Italy