Sanctuary of Madonna degli Angeli: A Place of Devotion and History

Nestled in the tranquility of the Italian countryside, the Sanctuary of Madonna degli Angeli in Caprigliola, in the province of Massa-Carrara, represents an important place of worship and a silent witness to centuries of history. The current building, dating back to around 1665, features a simple single-hall structure. Inside, the main altar immediately captures attention, crowned by a majestic piece that enhances its solemnity.

A Marian Shrine and Popular Devotion

The altar houses a shrine with a marble bas-relief depicting the Virgin Mary, an object of deep veneration by the faithful. Marian devotion in this place is palpable and manifests through a rich collection of ex-votos.

The ex-votos: testimonies of faith and miracles

Once hung on the interior walls of the sanctuary, the ex-votos represent a tangible testimony of the faith and gratitude of the faithful who have received graces or protection from the Madonna degli Angeli. Today, most ex-votos consist of silver heart-shaped plaques and fabric ribbons, often tied to requests for protection for newborns. In ancient times, there were also tablets or plaques with inscriptions and goldsmith objects. For security reasons, the current location of the ex-votos is not disclosed.

Deep Historical Roots: From Hospital to Oratory

The date of 1664 inscribed on the sanctuary’s door might be misleading. Its origins are much older, dating back to the Early Middle Ages. Before becoming a Marian place of worship, the building served as a hospital. Historical documents, such as the “Registrum Vetus” and the “Registrum Novum” preserved in the Historical Archive of the Municipality of Sarzana, attest that in the Treaty of Pietrasanta, the Municipality of Sarzana received half of the proceeds from the salt customs duty in the stretch between Porta Beltrame and the hospital of Arforara. According to historian Ricci, it is very likely that this hospital corresponds to the current site of the sanctuary. It is hypothesized that the hospital existed two centuries before the “Registrum,” transforming into an oratory dedicated to the Virgin before 1590, as testified during a pastoral visit.

The Legend of Marquis Negri and Divine Protection

Oral tradition tells of a miraculous event linked to Marquis Negri, saved by divine intervention while about to be attacked by some brigands. This episode has contributed to increasing the fame and sacredness of the place.

Hermits and Parish Disputes

In the early 18th century, the sanctuary was entrusted to the care of two hermits, including Domenico Spezzini of Santo Stefano and Pietro of France. Until 1940, disputes ensued between the parish clergy and the Negri-Pavese family, who claimed rights of patronage over the sanctuary. The clergy recognized the marquises as benefactors but not as patrons.

A Sanctuary to Discover: Faith, History, and Research

A visit to the Sanctuary of Madonna degli Angeli offers an experience that goes beyond mere religious devotion. It is an immersion into local history, discovering a place that has spanned the centuries, transforming and adapting to the needs of the community.
A tip for the more adventurous: try consulting the parish and municipal archives. You might uncover unpublished documents on the history of the sanctuary, the families who protected it, and the graces received by the faithful. A true treasure trove of information to bring to light.

This entry was compiled by Gabriele Costa.

54011 Caprigliola MS, Italy