Notre-Dame de Guérison: A Sanctuary of Faith and History at the Foot of Mont Blanc

Nestled in the majestic Val Veny, at the foot of Mont Blanc, stands the sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Guérison, a place of profound spirituality and a destination for centuries-old pilgrimages. This sanctuary, set against a breathtaking alpine landscape, serves as a beacon of hope and a focal point for Marian devotion.

History and Devotion

The origins of the sanctuary are lost in the mists of time, shrouded in legends and folk traditions. It is said that in this place, even in pre-Christian times, a deity associated with healing and protection was venerated. With the advent of Christianity, the worship transformed into devotion to the Virgin Mary, invoked as “Notre-Dame de Guérison,” Our Lady of Healing.

The current building, with its Latin cross plan extending over approximately one hundred square meters, is the result of successive expansions and modifications. Notably, the structure reached its present form following the second expansion. The sanctuary endured a period of forced abandonment due to the advance of the glacier, specifically from July 2, 1819, to May 22, 1821.

The Statue of the Madonna: A Symbol of Faith

Inside the sanctuary, a place of honor is reserved for the statue of the Madonna and Child. The original statue, dating back to the 17th-18th century, was a remarkable work of carved, painted, and partially gilded wood. It depicted the Virgin Mary standing, with a scepter in her right hand and the infant Jesus on her left arm, the latter holding a globe. Unfortunately, in 1977, the statue was stolen and replaced with an identical copy, which continues to be venerated by the faithful.

It is said that the original statue came into use between 1791 and 1793, solidifying the sanctuary’s reputation as a place of miracles and healings.

Ex Votos: Testimonies of Received Grace

The walls of the sanctuary are entirely covered with ex votos, votive offerings made by the faithful as a sign of gratitude for received grace. This extraordinary collection represents a tangible testament to popular faith and devotion. Among the oldest ex votos is one dating back to 1816. Among the more recent ones stands out the ex voto offered by the municipal administration of Courmayeur to thank the Madonna for protection during the flooding of the Val Ferret stream.

A particularly noteworthy object is the miniature silver model of the Stella Polare, the ship of the first Italian expedition to the North Pole. The expedition survivors, as the dedication reads, brought the object as a gift to the sanctuary of Notre-Dame de la Guérison, invoked as their protector during the perilous journey, on June 23, 1901. Among the types of ex votos present, one can admire inscribed tablets or plaques, painted tablets, goldsmith objects, anthropomorphic figurines, real or represented prostheses, and much more.

A Spiritual and Scenic Adventure

Beyond its religious significance, the Notre-Dame de Guérison sanctuary offers a unique opportunity for an adventure and discovery experience. The trail leading to the sanctuary winds through alpine landscapes of rare beauty, offering breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding valleys. Nature lovers and trekkers can embark on more challenging hikes, reaching alpine refuges and glacial lakes, immersing themselves in an untouched and rejuvenating environment.

Exploration Tips:

• Panoramic Trail: Follow the trail starting from La Villette and gently ascending toward the sanctuary, admiring the alpine flora and fauna.
• Bertone Refuge: Continue the hike to the Bertone Refuge, which offers a spectacular view of Mont Blanc.
• Combal Lake: Reach Combal Lake, a charming glacial water mirror at the foot of the Miage Glacier.

Maintenance Work

Starting in the 1950s, the sanctuary underwent numerous maintenance interventions, necessary to preserve the structure from weather and the wear of time. The exterior walls were repainted, the roof was redone, the original zinc spire of the bell tower was replaced with a copper one, and an upstream slab was installed to protect the sanctuary from water infiltration. These interventions testify to the commitment and care dedicated to preserving this important place of worship.

Via Val Veny La Villette, Courmayeur, AO 11013, 11013 Courmayeur AO, Italy