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Madonna del Faggio Sanctuary: A Spiritual Treasure in the Tuscan Apennines

Nestled in the heart of the Tuscan Apennines, the Madonna del Faggio Sanctuary is a place of profound spirituality, rich in history and surrounded by pristine nature. This sanctuary, a destination for pilgrims and lovers of tranquility, holds an ancient legend and a precious fresco, testaments to centuries of faith.

The History and Legend of the Apparition

The history of the Madonna del Faggio Sanctuary dates back to 1516. Tradition tells of the Virgin Mary appearing to a young shepherdess, offering her strawberries in exchange for the daily recitation of the Holy Rosary. This miraculous event, immortalized in an inscription on the portal’s architrave (“Aparve la Vergine A. MV16”), marked the beginning of popular devotion to this sacred place.

Over the centuries, the sanctuary has experienced periods of fervor and abandonment. In 1793, due to the depopulation of the village of Sintigliano, Bishop Roberto Costaguti of Sansepolcro entrusted its care to the community of Cercetole, ensuring the continuity of worship.

The Art and Architecture of the Sanctuary

The sanctuary features a simple and austere structure, entirely built with local stone. Adjacent to the church is a hermitage, also made of stone, once home to the hermits who guarded the sacred site. Inside, the single altar houses a 16th-century fresco depicting the Madonna and Child, an object of deep veneration. In 1715, the Madonna was crowned with a silver crown, a testament to the profound devotion of the people.

The Cult and Saints Associated with the Sanctuary

In addition to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the central figure of the sanctuary, it is important to remember the saints connected to this place of prayer. Though not directly linked to the sanctuary, saints like St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of Italy and a key figure in Franciscan spirituality, and St. Clare of Assisi, founder of the Order of the Poor Clares, can be seen as models of faith and devotion that inspire pilgrims visiting the sanctuary. Their lives and teachings encourage prayer, penance, and love for others, fundamental values for every Christian.
The material upkeep of the sanctuary and the organization of liturgical celebrations were entrusted to a brotherhood of devout men from Sintigliano. Starting in 1689, the brotherhood was joined by hermits, including Brother Guglielmo Girardi, originally from Lyon, who dedicated his life to guarding the sanctuary until his death in 1715. Later, the care of the sanctuary was entrusted to Brother Gioacchino Gherardini from Volterra (from 1715 to 1754) and Mattia di Lazzaro from Castelnuovo (from 1754).

Indulgences and Pastoral Visits

In 1715, Pope Clement XI granted a plenary indulgence to pilgrims visiting the Madonna del Faggio Sanctuary, a tangible sign of its religious importance. Episcopal jurisdiction over the sanctuary is documented as early as 1568, as recorded in the Pastoral Visit of Bishop Niccolò Tornabuoni of Sansepolcro, which notes the church’s construction by a brotherhood of devout men from Sintigliano.

Ideas for an Adventurous Visit

Beyond its spiritual significance, the Madonna del Faggio Sanctuary offers exciting opportunities for nature and adventure lovers. The trails winding through the surrounding woods invite pleasant hikes, revealing breathtaking views and hidden corners. You can explore abandoned ancient villages, fresh water springs, and traces of rural life from the past. The area is also rich in flora and fauna, providing opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. Before embarking on any hike, it is advisable to check trail conditions and bring appropriate gear.

Useful Information for Your Visit

• Address: 52036 Pieve Santo Stefano AR, Italy
• Recommended season: Spring and summer to fully enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature.
• How to get there: The sanctuary is accessible by car from Pieve Santo Stefano. It is recommended to check opening hours before your visit.

52036 Pieve Santo Stefano AR, Italy