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Sanctuary of Santa Margherita Cortona

4.7
·1k reviews·Cortona, Italy

A hilltop Catholic sanctuary in Cortona with opulent interiors and breathtaking Tuscan countryside views, especially at sunset.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Afternoon

Golden hour for views

CrowdMedium
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Basilica.

Sanctuary of Santa Margherita Cortona

Best Time

Late Afternoon

Golden hour for views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A hilltop Catholic sanctuary in Cortona with opulent interiors and breathtaking Tuscan countryside views, especially at sunset.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Truly a great and moving experience for Catholic pilgrimage with excellent views for daily horizon sunset viewing."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The walk up from Cortona is steep! Good footwear is essential for the climb and exploring the church grounds.

🌅 Catch the Sunset Views

The panoramic views from the Sanctuary are spectacular, especially at sunset. Plan your visit accordingly!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Opulent Interior

Opulent Interior

Main Sanctuary

Marvel at the richly decorated interior, featuring colorful frescoes and intricate details that create a breathtaking atmosphere.

Panoramic Countryside Views

Panoramic Countryside Views

Outside the Sanctuary

Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Tuscan countryside, especially stunning during sunset, offering a perfect photo opportunity.

Sarcophagus of Saint Margaret

Sarcophagus of Saint Margaret

Chapel

See the preserved sarcophagus of Saint Margaret, a focal point for pilgrims and a testament to her revered life.

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Planning Your Visit

The Steep Climb to Serenity

Prepare for a significant uphill walk from Cortona's center to reach the Sanctuary. While rewarding, it's a steep trek, especially for those with mobility concerns. Consider comfortable shoes and plan your visit before sunset as paths lack lighting.

Peaceful All-Day Access

Unlike many churches that close midday, the Sanctuary of Santa Margherita is open all day, offering a tranquil escape. This extended access allows for unhurried exploration and appreciation of its opulent interior and stunning views.

Best Times

When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour for views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The walk up from Cortona is steep! Good footwear is essential for the climb and exploring the church grounds. Reddit

🌅 Catch the Sunset Views

The panoramic views from the Sanctuary are spectacular, especially at sunset. Plan your visit accordingly! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hike the Stations of the Cross

The path leading up to the Sanctuary features the Stations of the Cross, adding a spiritual dimension to your walk. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, bring water for the uphill journey. There are limited facilities on the way up. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The walk up from Cortona is steep! Good footwear is essential for the climb and exploring the church grounds. Reddit

🌅 Catch the Sunset Views

The panoramic views from the Sanctuary are spectacular, especially at sunset. Plan your visit accordingly! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hike the Stations of the Cross

The path leading up to the Sanctuary features the Stations of the Cross, adding a spiritual dimension to your walk. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, bring water for the uphill journey. There are limited facilities on the way up. Reddit

⏰ Arrive Before Closing

While open all day, some attractions in Cortona close around 8 PM, so plan your visit to the Sanctuary and surrounding areas accordingly. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Sanctuary of Santa Margherita for its stunning panoramic views, especially at sunset, and its opulent, richly decorated interior. The all-day opening hours are a significant plus, offering a peaceful retreat. However, the steep uphill walk from Cortona's center is a notable challenge for those with mobility issues, and the lack of path lighting after dark is a consideration.

"A beautiful place - really peaceful and so well built. Stunning decoration. An absolute must if you are staying in the area - we walked up from Cortona and it was well worth the steep steps."

Benji

"Beautiful church where you can visit St. Margaretia. The views are also spectacular"

Marta Swiecki

"Was warmly welcomed by the Franciscans here. It’s quite a climb from the town below, but after a couple times and trying out less demanding routes, it’s a beautiful sight to behold, both exteriorly and interiorly! Also, our girl Santa Margherita di Cortona! 🙌"

Br. Ephrem Upart, OP

What People Like

Spectacular countryside views
Opulent and colorful interior
Open all day access

What People Dislike

Steep uphill walk
No path lighting at night

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Sanctuary is located at the top of Cortona. You can walk from the city center, but be prepared for a steep uphill climb. Alternatively, you can drive or take a taxi to the top, where parking is generally available. Reddit

Yes, the walk from Cortona's center to the Sanctuary is quite steep and can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended. Reddit

Yes, you can drive to the Sanctuary. There is usually parking available at the top, making it an accessible option for those who prefer not to walk the entire way. Reddit

While direct public transport to the very top might be limited, you can take local buses to Cortona town and then proceed with the uphill walk or a taxi. Reddit

For visitors with limited mobility, taking a taxi or driving directly to the Sanctuary is the most recommended approach to avoid the steep walk. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the entrance to the Sanctuary of Santa Margherita is free. You can explore its beautiful interior and enjoy the views without any admission cost. Reddit

The Sanctuary is open all day, which is a significant advantage as many other churches in Italy close for a few hours in the afternoon. Reddit

Yes, you can attend mass at the Sanctuary. It's described as a great and moving experience, particularly for Catholic pilgrimage. Reddit

The Sanctuary is open all day, so evening visits are possible. However, be aware that paths outside the church may lack lighting after dark. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed inside religious sites, but it's always respectful to check for any posted signs or ask church officials if you're unsure, especially during services. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities are from the exterior, capturing the panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside, especially during sunset. The interior's opulent decorations also make for stunning shots. Reddit

Absolutely! The elevated position of the Sanctuary offers breathtaking sunset views over the rolling hills, making it a prime location for photographers. Reddit

Photography of the sarcophagus is generally permitted, but always be mindful of other visitors and any specific rules within the chapel area. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and the grand interior. A telephoto lens can be useful for details within the church or distant landscape shots. Reddit

Late afternoon, leading into sunset, offers the best light for landscape photography. Mornings can also be beautiful and less crowded for interior shots. Reddit

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find an opulent interior with colorful frescoes, stained glass, and the sarcophagus of Saint Margaret. It's a place of peace and historical significance. Reddit

A quick visit can take 10-15 minutes, but you might want to spend longer to soak in the atmosphere, admire the art, and enjoy the views. Reddit

Yes, it is a significant site for Catholic pilgrimage, particularly due to its connection with Saint Margaret of Cortona and her relics. Reddit

There is a stone within the basilica marking the spot believed to be where Saint Margaret ascended to heaven, a point of veneration for visitors. Reddit

Restroom facilities are typically available at major religious sites like this, though it's always good to confirm upon arrival or use facilities in town beforehand if concerned. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Sanctuary of Santa Margherita offers a unique experience for families, blending a spiritual site with stunning natural beauty. While the steep walk up from Cortona might be challenging for very young children or strollers, families can opt to drive or take a taxi directly to the top. Reddit Once there, the expansive views are captivating for all ages, and the story of Saint Margaret can be an engaging tale for older children. The all-day opening hours are a bonus, allowing flexibility for nap times or unexpected delays. Consider bringing snacks and water, as facilities on the immediate path can be limited. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Sanctuary of Santa Margherita is an excellent choice as entrance is free. Reddit The main cost will be transportation if you choose not to walk. The walk itself is a free, albeit strenuous, way to reach the site and offers the added spiritual element of the Stations of the Cross. Reddit Pack your own water and snacks to save money, and enjoy the incredible views and the richly decorated interior without spending a euro. It's a high-value experience that costs nothing to enter. Reddit

❤️ Couples

The Sanctuary of Santa Margherita provides a romantic and serene setting for couples. The uphill walk can be a shared adventure, leading to breathtaking sunset views that are perfect for a romantic moment. Reddit The peaceful atmosphere inside the church offers a quiet space for reflection together. Consider timing your visit for the late afternoon to enjoy the magical light over the Tuscan landscape, making for an unforgettable experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ascent: Navigating the Walk to the Sanctuary

The journey to the Sanctuary of Santa Margherita is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. Visitors consistently mention the steep climb from the heart of Cortona. This isn't a casual stroll; it's a proper uphill trek that requires good physical condition and, crucially, comfortable footwear. Many reviewers advise wearing sturdy shoes to manage the incline and uneven surfaces. For those with mobility challenges, this aspect is a significant consideration, and opting for a taxi or driving directly to the top is strongly recommended. Reddit

Adding to the spiritual journey, the path is often lined with the Stations of the Cross, offering moments for reflection and prayer along the way. This transforms the physical exertion into a more meaningful pilgrimage. However, it's also important to note that post-dark, the path lacks lighting, making an early evening visit safer if you plan to walk back down. Reddit

Despite the physical demands, the reward at the summit is universally praised. The panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside are breathtaking, particularly during the golden hour of sunset. This visual splendor makes the effort entirely worthwhile for most visitors, offering a serene and memorable experience away from the main tourist bustle of the town below. Reddit

A Haven of Peace: The Sanctuary's Atmosphere and Significance

The Sanctuary of Santa Margherita is more than just a beautiful church; it's a place of profound peace and spiritual significance. Unlike many European churches that observe midday closures, this Sanctuary remains open all day, providing a consistent sanctuary for visitors. This extended accessibility allows for unhurried contemplation and a more personal connection with the site, even on a rainy, less crowded day. Reddit

The opulent interior is a major draw, featuring vibrant frescoes and a richly decorated space that contrasts with the rugged exterior. A key focal point for pilgrims and visitors alike is the sarcophagus of Saint Margaret, a tangible link to her life and legacy. The story of her deep love for the community and their immediate veneration of her is a powerful narrative that resonates with many who visit. Reddit

Beyond its religious importance, the Sanctuary offers a unique perspective on Cortona's history and its connection to the divine. The presence of a stone marking the spot where Saint Margaret is believed to have ascended to heaven adds a layer of mystique and reverence. It's a place where history, faith, and natural beauty converge, offering a tranquil retreat for all who make the journey to its hilltop perch. Reddit

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