Sanctuary of the Holy Martyrs of Anaunia: Faith, History, and Adventure in the Heart of Trentino

The Sanctuary of the Holy Martyrs of Anaunia, located near Sanzeno in Trentino, is a place steeped in faith, history, and spirituality. Dedicated to Saints Sisinius, Martyrius, and Alexander, evangelizers of the Anaunia region (today’s Val di Non), this sanctuary preserves the memory of their martyrdom and invites visitors on a profound inner journey and, why not, to discover a territory rich in charm.

The Origins: Witnesses of Faith in the Val di Non

The history of the sanctuary has its roots in the 4th century, precisely in 397 AD, the date traditionally associated with the martyrdom of the three saints. Sisinius, Martyrius, and Alexander, sent by Bishop Ambrose of Milan, dedicated themselves to evangelizing the Val di Non, which at the time was still tied to pagan cults. Their preaching, however, aroused the hostility of the local authorities, who ordered their killing. According to tradition, the three martyrs were burned alive on the spot where the sanctuary stands today.

Sisinius, Martyrius, and Alexander: The Holy Martyrs

Sisinius, a wealthy landowner from Cappadocia, together with his wife Dadas and his brother Alexander, left his riches to follow the call of Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, to evangelize the Non Valley.
Martyrius, a lector, was endowed with great eloquence and fervor in preaching.
Alexander, brother of Saint Sisinius, served as an ostiary, welcoming travelers and the sick.

The “Inventio” of the Ashes and the Rebirth of the Sanctuary (15th Century)

For centuries, the site of the martyrdom remained an object of veneration, though without a proper sanctuary structure. The decisive turning point occurred in 1472, when Bishop Johannes Hinderbach promoted the “inventio” (discovery) of ashes believed to belong to the bodies of the martyrs, found under the altar during reconstruction work on the pre-existing parish church. This event gave new impetus to the devotion and transformed the church into a true sanctuary, a destination for pilgrimages and prayer.

The discovery of the ashes: a miraculous event

It was the Bishop of Trent, Giovanni Enderbach, who, during the reconstruction of a pre-existing church, found the ashes of the three martyrs under the main altar. This miraculous event gave a great boost to the cult of the saints and transformed the place into an important pilgrimage center.

The Sanctuary Today: A Place of Devotion and Reflection

Today, the Sanctuary of the Holy Martyrs of Anaunia presents itself as an architectural complex of great historical and artistic value. The church, rebuilt in the 15th century and enriched in subsequent centuries, houses precious works of art, including frescoes, statues, and paintings that narrate the history of the martyrs and the faith of the local community.

What to see inside:

• The ashes of the saints: kept in an urn under the main altar, they are the focal point of popular devotion.
• The frescoes: dating back to the 15th century, they tell the story of the martyrs and scenes from their lives.
• The ex-votos: a testimony of the faith and gratitude of the faithful.

Hints of Adventure and Discovery: Beyond Devotion

A visit to the Sanctuary of the Holy Martyrs of Anaunia can also be an opportunity to explore the surrounding territory, rich in natural and cultural beauty. The Val di Non offers numerous hiking trails, ideal for trekking and nature lovers. You can visit ancient villages, medieval castles, and admire the famous apple orchards that characterize the valley’s landscape. Furthermore, the sanctuary is located along the Cammino di San Vili, a path of faith and history that retraces the footsteps of the first bishop of Trent.

Ideas for exploration:

• Trekking on the Cammino di San Vili: a spiritual and naturalistic experience.
• Visit to the castles of Val di Non: Castel Thun, Castel Valer, and Castel Coredo.
• Tasting of typical products: apples, cheeses, cured meats, and wines of the Val di Non.

Useful Information

The sanctuary is open to visitors year-round. Mass times and celebration schedules may vary, so it is advisable to consult the parish website or contact the local tourist office for updated information.

How to get there:

• By car: A22 motorway, San Michele all’Adige exit. Follow signs for Cles and then for Sanzeno.
• By train: Trento station. Continue by bus to Sanzeno.

The Sanctuary of the Holy Martyrs of Anaunia is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the history and identity of the Val di Non. Visiting this sanctuary means immersing yourself in an atmosphere of faith, discovering an artistic and cultural heritage of great value, and living an unforgettable experience.