Sanctuary of Sant’Anna di Montrigone: A Jewel of Faith, Art, and History in the Heart of Piedmont

Nestled in the greenery of the Piedmont hills, the Sanctuary of Sant’Anna di Montrigone is a place of profound spirituality, rich in history and art, attracting pilgrims and visitors eager to rediscover the beauty of faith and the richness of Italy’s cultural heritage.

A Path of Faith: The Stations of the Cross

The path leading to the sanctuary is enhanced by the presence of the fourteen chapels of the Stations of the Cross, an invitation to reflection and prayer. The frescoes adorning these chapels, created by the renowned painter Lorenzo Peracino di Cellio, depict the Passion of Christ with emotional intensity and artistic mastery, offering a visually striking experience.

Precious Relics: A Touching Connection to Saint Anne

Inside the sanctuary, a precious relic is preserved: a fragment of fabric from Saint Anne’s garment, kept in an elegant silver reliquary. This relic, introduced in 1763, represents a tangible link to the saint, mother of Mary and grandmother of Jesus, and inspires deep devotion among the faithful.

The Sculptural Group of the Nativity: A Masterpiece by Giovanni D’Enrico

Another treasure of the sanctuary is the polychrome terracotta sculptural group depicting the Nativity of Mary. Eleven statues, the work of Giovanni D’Enrico and the Ferro brothers (1640–1648), bring the scene to life with realism and vibrancy, transporting visitors into an atmosphere of intimate familiarity and joyful anticipation. The Nativity is revealed through these expressive and delicate figures, narrating the sacred story with grace.

History and Devotion: The Roots of the Sanctuary

The history of the Sanctuary of Sant’Anna di Montrigone is rooted in popular devotion and a vow made by the landowners of Montrigone. In 1631, a request for authorization to build the sanctuary was submitted to the Diocese of Novara—an act of faith and hope during a difficult historical period. The first Mass was celebrated on July 26, 1632, and in 1634, the first attested miracle was recorded. Construction was completed in 1639, and between 1640 and 1648, the statues we admire today were created and installed.

Historical Events and Testimonies of Faith

• July 25, 1655: At the foot of the sanctuary’s hill, the Battle of Sant’Anna took place—a clash between Franco-Piedmontese and Valsesian militias, an event that marked the region’s history.
• 1700–1823: The presence of hermits in a dedicated hermitage is documented, witnesses to a life of prayer and solitude devoted to God.
• 1701: The beginning of official celebrations for the Feast of Saint Anne, a moment of great popular participation and renewed devotion.
• 1743–1749: Construction of the sanctuary’s portico, an architectural element that adds solemnity to the building and welcomes pilgrims.
• 1763: Donation of a relic of Saint Anne to the sanctuary and construction of the fourteen external chapels, enriching the devotional path.
• 1891: Sant’Anna was designated the Gateway to the Sanctuary of Varallo, thus becoming part of the Sacred Mountains route—a recognition of its historical, artistic, and spiritual value.

Ex-Votos: Testimonies of Received Grace

The sanctuary’s walls were once adorned with numerous ex-votos, tangible testimonies of the faithful’s gratitude for received graces. Pastoral visits from 1663–1691 and later (Diocesan Archive of Novara) document the presence of these votive objects, though most have since been lost. The current ex-votos consist of luminaries, goldsmithing objects, and pink and blue ribbons—symbols of joy and hope.

The former ex-votos included painted tablets, anthropomorphic figurines, and other objects recounting stories of healings, protections, and miracles.

Ideas for Exploration and Spiritual Adventure

A visit to the Sanctuary of Sant’Anna di Montrigone can become an experience of discovery and spiritual adventure. Beyond contemplating the artworks and praying, you can:

• Walk the path leading to the hermitage, imagining the solitary lives of the hermits who once lived there. What stories and secrets might the stones of this silent place still hold?
• Explore the surroundings of the sanctuary, searching for traces of the 1655 battle. With a bit of luck, you might uncover historical artifacts or signs of the militias’ passage.
• Participate in the celebrations for the Feast of Saint Anne, immersing yourself in the festive and devotional atmosphere that enlivens the place each year.
• Visit the Diocesan Archive of Novara to delve deeper into the sanctuary’s history through ancient documents and unpublished testimonies.

The Sanctuary of Sant’Anna di Montrigone, with its centuries-old history, sacred art, and atmosphere of peace and spirituality, is an ideal destination for those seeking to rediscover the beauty of faith and the richness of Italy’s cultural heritage.

Via Sorelle Calderini, 9, 13011 Borgosesia VC, Italy