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Sanctuary of Madonna del Buon Consiglio: A Jewel of Faith in the Heart of Plello

Nestled in the tranquility of Plello, a hamlet of Borgosesia, the Sanctuary of Madonna del Buon Consiglio welcomes pilgrims and visitors with an embrace of history, faith, and art. This sacred place, guardian of a profound Marian devotion, offers a spiritual experience enriched by evocative architectural elements and a centuries-old history steeped in miracles.

History and Origins: A Journey Through Time

The sanctuary’s history dates back to the 15th century. A 1477 curial document, preserved in the historical diocesan archives of Novara, attests to the existence of a building dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria, the original nucleus of the current sanctuary. Over the following centuries, the importance of the site grew, and in 1603, the parish of Plello gained autonomy from Borgosesia.

The turning point came in 1735 when a reproduction of the miraculous image of the Madonna del Buon Consiglio of Genazzano (Rome) was donated to the parish of Plello. This event marked the beginning of fervent Marian devotion and the transformation of the oratory into a sanctuary.

In 1759, the Confraternity of the Good Counsel was established, an association of faithful dedicated to promoting Marian worship and caring for the sanctuary. The founding of the confraternity was accompanied by the granting of indulgences, a testament to the ecclesiastical favor toward this place of worship.

Sacred Architecture: A Dialogue of Styles and Devotion

In 1740, along the ancient cemetery area, the chapels of the Stations of the Cross were built, a meditative path on the Passion of Christ. At the beginning of the 19th century, the sanctuary underwent significant restructuring and expansion. The building took on its current configuration, with a single nave and three side chapels. The former entrance was transformed into a deep choir, while the façade and portico were constructed where the ancient apse once stood.

Despite the transformations, the sanctuary retains traces of its past, such as the ancient bell tower with Romanesque masonry features and the 17th-century sacristy. These architectural elements create a fascinating dialogue between different styles, bearing witness to the long and intricate history of the site.

Madonna del Buon Consiglio: Icon of Grace and Miracles

The image of the Madonna del Buon Consiglio, the focal point of popular devotion, was donated to the Capuchin friar Felice Rosso of Plello by the Bishop of Capua in the 18th century. It is a reproduction of the icon venerated in Genazzano, depicting the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus. The sacred image is a painting of great artistic and spiritual value, inviting prayer and contemplation.

Over the centuries, numerous miracles have been attributed to the intercession of the Madonna del Buon Consiglio. One of the most significant occurred in August 1796, when an extraordinary event stirred great emotion and strengthened the faith of the faithful.

Treasures of Devotion: The Ex-Votos

At one time, the sanctuary walls were adorned with numerous ex-votos, votive offerings donated by the faithful as thanks for received graces. The collection included painted tablets, goldsmith works, and other artifacts dating from the 18th to the 20th century. Unfortunately, the ex-votos were removed from the sanctuary after World War II. Their presence testified to the vibrant popular faith and the deep bond between the faithful and the Madonna del Buon Consiglio.

Ideas for an Adventurous Visit

Beyond its spiritual and artistic value, the Sanctuary of Madonna del Buon Consiglio also offers opportunities for exploring the surrounding area. You could:

• Explore the ancient cemetery area: in search of the Stations of the Cross chapels, nestled in greenery and steeped in history.
• Investigate the Romanesque traces of the bell tower: an opportunity to admire architectural remnants of the past.
• Search for ancient artifacts and sacred images: by inquiring about the history of the sanctuary and its treasures.

A visit to the Sanctuary of Madonna del Buon Consiglio is an experience that nourishes the soul and enriches the mind, an opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of creation and the depth of faith.

13011 Plello VC, Italy