Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Pilgrim: A Journey Through Faith and History

Nestled in the tranquil Veneto countryside, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Pilgrim stands as a beacon of faith and a guardian of miraculous stories. This sacred place, located near Erbè in the province of Verona, invites pilgrims and visitors to an experience of deep spirituality and cultural discovery.

Architecture and Sacred Art

The sanctuary features a harmonious square layout, enhanced by two graceful side chapels. The central and most venerated element is undoubtedly the miraculous fresco, protected by glass and a curtain, depicting the Virgin of Carmel with the Child. In this artwork, the Madonna offers the scapular, a symbol of protection and belonging to the Carmelite order, to Saint Roch, protector against the scourge of plague, and to Saint Anthony of Padua, miracle worker and Doctor of the Church.

The sacred iconography of this fresco conveys a powerful message of hope and intercession, an invitation to prayer and devotion.

The Story of a Miracle: From Geese to a Sanctuary

The history of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Pilgrim is rooted in a folk tale, passed down orally and recorded by Ettore Bolisani in his booklet dedicated to the sanctuary. It is said that a young shepherdess, while tending her geese in a meadow, had a vision of the Virgin Mary. The Virgin expressed her desire for a sanctuary to be built in her honor and for her image to be painted. A local artist, inspired by the girl’s words, created the fresco that we can still admire today.

The Construction of the Sanctuary: A Work of Faith and Perseverance

The fame of the miraculous image spread quickly, attracting many faithful and bringing stories of miraculous healings attributed to the Virgin’s intercession. The monks of San Zeno, then owners of the land, decided to build an oratory to protect the sacred image. The cornerstone was laid on October 20, 1721, but work was interrupted in June 1722 due to an accident: the collapse of the facade cornice, which fortunately caused no casualties among the builders.

Thanks to the intervention of Veronese architect Francesco Perotti, the project was improved, and work resumed with renewed vigor. On September 8, 1723, the sanctuary was finally inaugurated, becoming an important center of worship and pilgrimage.

Patron Saints: Saint Roch and Saint Anthony of Padua

The presence of Saint Roch and Saint Anthony of Padua in the sanctuary’s fresco highlights the importance of these saints in popular devotion. Saint Roch, invoked as a protector against plague and infectious diseases, was a key figure in an era marked by epidemics and suffering. Saint Anthony of Padua, known for his miracles and profound theological wisdom, embodies the saint who is close to the people, ready to listen to prayers and intercede for those in need.

Ex-Votos: Testimonies of Received Graces (and an Adventurous Search)

At one time, the walls of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Pilgrim were covered with ex-votos: painted tablets, inscribed plaques, goldsmith works, and even prosthetics, offered by the faithful as tokens of gratitude for received graces. The first tablet dated back to 1722, while the last was from the early 1900s. Unfortunately, these precious items were stolen, but it is said they are preserved by the Previdi family. Obtaining permission to view them could turn into an adventurous historical and spiritual quest!

The Sanctuary Today: A Place of Peace and Reflection

Despite historical changes and the passage of time, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Pilgrim remains a place of prayer, peace, and reflection. Its simple yet elegant architecture, the miraculous fresco, and its rich history of faith and devotion make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to nourish their soul and discover the spiritual roots of this region.

Additional Information

The jurisdiction of the Benedictines of San Zeno of Verona over the sanctuary ended in 1771 following the directives of the Venetian Government. In 1835, a list of public oratories in Erbè noted that the sanctuary was served by a chaplain with the obligation of Sunday Mass and hearing confessions. After the suppression of certain religious orders, the sanctuary, along with the land on which it stood, was sold on December 14, 1771.

37063 Pellegrina VR, Italy