Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart: A Treasure of Faith, History, and Spirituality in the Heart of Italy

The Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart, located in Reggio Calabria, is a place of profound spirituality and devotion, steeped in history and faith. This page will guide you through the discovery of this important religious site, offering insights for both a spiritual and adventurous experience.

History and Rebirth of a Symbol of Faith

The history of the Sanctuary is marked by significant events, including earthquakes and reconstructions, which have shaped its identity. In 1889, Archbishop Gennaro Portanova blessed the cornerstone of the church, attached to the Monastery of the Visitation of Saint Mary. The work, interrupted several times due to lack of funds, saw the church roofed only in 1901 and consecrated in 1903. The 1908 earthquake caused the roof to collapse, leading to the deconsecration of the building.

Pope Pius X donated a temporary church, inaugurated in 1909, as a sign of solidarity. In 1940, on the occasion of the second centenary of the Monastery’s founding, the cornerstone of the new building was laid. Interrupted by wartime bombings, the work was completed, and the Sanctuary was consecrated on June 8, 1975.

Architecture and Sacred Art

The church’s façade, accessible via a wide staircase, features a gabled roof and a bell tower on the left side. The single nave leads to a semicircular apse, illuminated by two windows and covered by a flat ceiling with painted coffering.

At the center of the apse, in a niche, stands a carved, painted, and partially gilded wooden statue, commissioned by the German nuns of the Monastery in Munich at the beginning of the last century. This sculpture is a focal point of devotion, representing the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Spirituality and Devotion

The Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart is a place of prayer and adoration. In 1968, the Holy See granted a plenary indulgence to those who participate in the Act of Reparation during the Feast of the Sacred Heart and to those who spend half an hour in Eucharistic adoration every Sunday.

Liturgical celebrations include weekday and Sunday Masses, overseen by a rector appointed by the Archbishop, the daily recitation of the Liturgy of the Hours, and Eucharistic adoration at various times during the week. The Sanctuary also welcomes prayer groups for spiritual retreats.

A Journey of Faith and Discovery

Visiting the Sanctuary is not only a religious experience but also an opportunity to explore the history and culture of the area.

• Search for Ex-Votos: In ancient times, sanctuaries were filled with ex-votos, votive offerings from the faithful. Though not explicitly mentioned, inquiring about their existence could add an element of research and discovery to your visit.
• Architectural Exploration: Observing the architectural details of the building, from its 19th-century foundations to its post-earthquake reconstruction, allows you to trace the history of the Sanctuary and the community that built it.
• Immersion in the Surrounding Nature: Reggio Calabria offers breathtaking panoramic views. Combining a visit to the Sanctuary with a walk in the surrounding area can enrich the spiritual experience with the beauty of creation.

The Saints and the Spirituality of the Sacred Heart

Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a cornerstone of Catholic spirituality. Saints like St. Margaret Mary Alacoque helped spread this devotion through their mystical revelations. Meditating on the Sacred Heart invites contemplation of God’s infinite love for humanity and calls for a response of love and reparation.

The spirituality of the Sacred Heart translates into concrete commitment in daily life—living charity toward others, social justice, and bearing witness to the faith. Visiting the Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart means immersing oneself in this spirituality and allowing Christ’s love to transform you.

Practical Information

The Sanctuary is under the jurisdiction of the monastic Order of the Visitation. The Archbishop oversees its operations and appoints the rector. For information about Mass times and Sanctuary activities, it is advisable to contact the Monastery of the Visitation directly, an ecclesiastical institution recognized with legal personality since 1954.

Reggio Calabria, Province of Reggio Calabria, Italy