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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour for views

Sanctuary of Santa Margherita Cortona
Best Time
Golden hour for views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hilltop Catholic sanctuary in Cortona with opulent interiors and breathtaking Tuscan countryside views, especially at sunset.
"Truly a great and moving experience for Catholic pilgrimage with excellent views for daily horizon sunset viewing."

👟 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!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Chapel
See the preserved sarcophagus of Saint Margaret, a focal point for pilgrims and a testament to her revered life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Steep Climb to Serenity
Peaceful All-Day Access
Best Times
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.
🌅 Catch the Sunset Views
The panoramic views from the Sanctuary are spectacular, especially at sunset. Plan your visit accordingly!
🚶♀️ 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.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring water for the uphill journey. There are limited facilities on the way up.
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.
🌅 Catch the Sunset Views
The panoramic views from the Sanctuary are spectacular, especially at sunset. Plan your visit accordingly!
🚶♀️ 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.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring water for the uphill journey. There are limited facilities on the way up.
⏰ 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.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
For visitors with limited mobility, taking a taxi or driving directly to the Sanctuary is the most recommended approach to avoid the steep walk.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
Yes, you can attend mass at the Sanctuary. It's described as a great and moving experience, particularly for Catholic pilgrimage.
The Sanctuary is open all day, so evening visits are possible. However, be aware that paths outside the church may lack lighting after dark.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Absolutely! The elevated position of the Sanctuary offers breathtaking sunset views over the rolling hills, making it a prime location for photographers.
Photography of the sarcophagus is generally permitted, but always be mindful of other visitors and any specific rules within the chapel area.
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.
Late afternoon, leading into sunset, offers the best light for landscape photography. Mornings can also be beautiful and less crowded for interior shots.
🎫 🚶♀️ 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.
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.
Yes, it is a significant site for Catholic pilgrimage, particularly due to its connection with Saint Margaret of Cortona and her relics.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ascent: Navigating the Walk to the Sanctuary
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.
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.
A Haven of Peace: The Sanctuary's Atmosphere and Significance
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.
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.



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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit