Sanctuary of Madonna di San Bernardino – Induno Olona (VA)

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Sanctuary of Madonna di San Bernardino: A Jewel of Faith and History in Induno Olona

The Sanctuary of Madonna di San Bernardino, located in the picturesque town of Induno Olona in the province of Varese, is a place of deep spirituality and rich history. Visiting this sanctuary means immersing oneself in an atmosphere of peace and contemplation, retracing the footsteps of centuries of Marian devotion.

Architecture and Structure of the Sanctuary

The current liturgical building, the result of a renovation designed by Francesco Neri della Motta, features a single rectangular nave, a similarly rectangular apse, and two side chapels. The façade is characterized by pilasters with a tympanum, a central door and window, and four side niches that once housed statues of saints.

Inside, you will find the sacristy and the Stations of the Cross, a testament to the profound spirituality that permeates the sanctuary. The Stations of the Cross have undergone several restorations over the centuries (1834, 1874, 1907-1908, and in the 1950s-1960s), reflecting the importance of this place for the community.

The Fresco of the Madonna and Child

The heart of the sanctuary is the fresco depicting the Madonna enthroned with the Child, crowned by two angels. This painting, dating between 1450 and 1550, underwent significant restorations in 1954 that altered the features of the Madonna and Child, as well as some decorative elements.
This fresco is the focal point of Marian devotion in the sanctuary. The Child, a symbol of innocence and hope, conveys a message of universal love.

Fresco of the Madonna and Child in the Sanctuary of San Bernardino

Ex-Votos: Testimonies of Faith and Received Graces

A tangible testament to the deep popular devotion are the ex-votos. As early as 1687, during the pastoral visit of Cardinal Federico Visconti, numerous ex-votos hanging near the main altar were noted. These objects, of various kinds, are a sign of gratitude for received graces and a testimony to the unwavering faith of the devotees. Unfortunately, there is no precise information about their current preservation, but their past existence offers a touching glimpse into the sanctuary’s history.

Historical Notes: From Origins to the Present Sanctuary

The origins of the sanctuary likely date back to the first half of the 16th century, when a small chapel stood on the site of the current building. The first written documents attesting to the sanctuary’s existence date back to 1546-47. In 1606, the feast of the Madonna di San Bernardino was established, confirming the growing importance of the place of worship.
In 1947, the effigy of the Madonna was included in the coat of arms of the municipality of Induno Olona, a testament to the unbreakable bond between the community and the sanctuary.
In 1556, Giovanni Battista Cermenati was appointed perpetual rector of the church of San Pietro in Silvis. This prestigious appointment led to a dispute with the new parish priest, Arcangelo de Ravertis, who took possession of the church and its assets in 1557. The conflict between the two clergymen lasted several years (1558-1564), highlighting the complex religious and social dynamics of the time.

The Noble Families and Patronage

Several noble families of Induno Olona, including the Crivelli, the Buzzi, and, from 1796 onward, the counts Zeno and Medici, played an important role in the sanctuary’s history. Together with the confraternity, these families maintained patronage, contributing to its care and development.

Adventurous Research Ideas

For lovers of local history and archival research, the Sanctuary of Madonna di San Bernardino offers several interesting avenues:

Historical document research: Delve into the sanctuary’s history by consulting archival documents related to pastoral visits, religious disputes, and bequests from noble families.
Study of ex-votos: Attempt to reconstruct the history of the lost ex-votos by consulting old local chronicles and oral testimonies.
Artistic analysis of the fresco: Further study the fresco of the Madonna and Child, analyzing the changes made during the 1954 restorations and attempting to reconstruct its original appearance.

A Place of Devotion and Peace

The Sanctuary of Madonna di San Bernardino is a place that invites reflection and prayer. Its centuries-old history, the beauty of its frescoes, and the testimony of popular devotion make it a special place where faith and history intertwine in an inseparable union. Visiting this sanctuary means discovering a hidden treasure, an oasis of peace in the heart of Lombardy.

Exterior of the Sanctuary of Madonna di San Bernardino in Induno Olona