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Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes: An Oasis of Faith in Verona
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in Verona is a place of deep spirituality, steeped in history and enriched by centuries of popular devotion. Located at a panoramic point in the city, it offers not only an experience of faith but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the history of the Italian Risorgimento and discover the artistic treasures housed within.
History and Architecture: A Sanctuary Between Faith and the Risorgimento
The history of the Sanctuary is intertwined with the events of the city of Verona. The current building stands on the platform of Forte San Leonardo, an Austrian fortification built in 1838. This fort, a witness to the tensions of the Risorgimento, was used as a political prison between 1943 and 1945. The choice of this location for the Sanctuary represents a symbolic transformation of a place of suffering into an oasis of hope and consolation.
The building, designed by architect Paolo Rossi de Paoli, features a circular floor plan with two lateral wings that harmoniously integrate with the pre-existing structures of the Austrian fort. Its construction began in 1958 and was completed in 1964, consecrating a place of prayer and Marian devotion.
The Statue of the Madonna: A Symbol of Faith and Hope
The heart of the Sanctuary is represented by the white marble statue of the Madonna, standing approximately 260 cm tall. This sculpture, created by Ugo Zannoni in 1908, depicts the Virgin in prayer with her hands clasped. The altar and the grotto housing the statue create an atmosphere of intimate spirituality. The ensemble is also visible from the outside through a large window, inviting passersby to prayer and contemplation.
The Ex-Votos: Testimonies of Received Grace
A particularly touching aspect of the Sanctuary is its collection of ex-votos. Small plaques, inscribed metal sheets, and goldsmith objects, donated by the faithful as thanks for received graces, testify to the deep faith and devotion to Our Lady of Lourdes. These objects, preserved in a room near the sacristy, tell stories of miraculous healings and divine intercessions. Among these, a miraculous healing that occurred on March 24, 1909, is remembered.
A Place of Centuries-Old Devotion: Saint Teresa and Don Gaspare Bertoni
The history of the Sanctuary is also linked to the figure of Saint Teresa of Avila and Don Gaspare Bertoni, founder of the Stigmatines and proclaimed a saint by Pope John Paul II in 1989. Initially, in the 17th century, the Carmelite nuns built a church dedicated to Saint Teresa. Later, at the beginning of the 20th century, Count Francesco Perez promoted the construction of the Sanctuary dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes near the Church of Saint Teresa. This connection between Saint Teresa, Don Bertoni, and Our Lady of Lourdes gives the place an aura of sacredness and deep devotion.
A Spiritual Adventure: Beyond Faith, a Dive into History
A visit to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in Verona is not only a religious experience but also an opportunity to explore a place rich in history. The panoramic location of the Sanctuary offers breathtaking views of the city, while the structures of Forte San Leonardo invite visitors to retrace the historical events of the Italian Risorgimento. A spiritual adventure intertwined with the discovery of a historical and artistic heritage of inestimable value.
Useful Information for Visitors
- Address: Verona, Province of Verona, Italy
- Opening Hours: (It is advisable to check updated hours on dedicated websites or by contacting the Sanctuary directly).
- How to Get There: The Sanctuary is easily accessible by car or public transport.
Verona, Province of Verona, Italy
