
Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie
A 16th-century sanctuary with a Michelangelo-school painting and a historic pipe organ, set in a stunning natural landscape overlooking the Stella Gul...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie
Best Time
Best chance for entry

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century sanctuary with a Michelangelo-school painting and a historic pipe organ, set in a stunning natural landscape overlooking the Stella Gulf.
"A charming place, but I wasn't able to visit inside."

🎯 Verify Hours Before You Go
Public access is limited; check weekday afternoon and Saturday service times.
👟 Hike the Scenic Trail
Enjoy a beautiful hour-long trek through Mediterranean scrub from Capoliveri.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Madonna delle Grazie Painting
Inside the Sanctuary
Admire the 16th-century painting of the Madonna and Child, attributed to the school of Michelangelo.

18th-Century Pipe Organ
Inside the Sanctuary
Experience the beauty of a still-functional pipe organ, a testament to the sanctuary's rich history.

Scenic Stella Gulf View
Near the Sanctuary
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Stella Gulf from the picturesque natural setting surrounding the sanctuary.
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Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours
Getting There & Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Verify Hours Before You Go
Public access is limited; check weekday afternoon and Saturday service times.
👟 Hike the Scenic Trail
Enjoy a beautiful hour-long trek through Mediterranean scrub from Capoliveri.
🚗 Easy Road Access
A 2km road from Capoliveri offers a quicker, though less scenic, route.
📸 Capture the Views
The surrounding area offers stunning vistas of the Stella Gulf.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Verify Hours Before You Go
Public access is limited; check weekday afternoon and Saturday service times.
👟 Hike the Scenic Trail
Enjoy a beautiful hour-long trek through Mediterranean scrub from Capoliveri.
🚗 Easy Road Access
A 2km road from Capoliveri offers a quicker, though less scenic, route.
📸 Capture the Views
The surrounding area offers stunning vistas of the Stella Gulf.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie for its beautiful 16th-century painting attributed to Michelangelo's school and its still-functional 18th-century pipe organ. The picturesque natural setting overlooking the Stella Gulf is also a significant draw. However, many reviewers note that the sanctuary has very limited opening hours, often finding it closed even during advertised times, leading to disappointment.
"Sadly verry few moments open for public"
Peter de Kwaasteniet
"This beautiful 16th-century church can be reached by car along a good 2km road just below Capoliveri, or by a trail that descends from the village in about an hour. It is a sanctuary and houses an image of the Madonna dating back to around 1548. The beautiful 18th-century pipe organ, still in use, is also noteworthy. This Jubilee church is open every afternoon, Monday to Friday, from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm. On Saturdays, it is open for two services at 10:00 am and 9:30 pm.
It is worth a visit."
Marina Russo
"Reachable from the town of the same name via trails immersed in the greenery of the Mediterranean scrub, I practically stumbled upon it during a jog from Capoliveri. I later discovered that there's also a more direct connecting trail from Capoliveri to the Sanctuary than the one I took.
A charming place, but I wasn't able to visit inside."
Alessia Melasecche Germini
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the sanctuary via a 2km road from Capoliveri or by a scenic hour-long hiking trail through the Mediterranean scrub. Some visitors have also found connecting trails from Capoliveri.
The trail is described as being immersed in greenery and is manageable for a jog or a leisurely walk, taking about an hour.
Yes, there is a good 2km road that leads directly to the sanctuary from just below Capoliveri.
The sanctuary is nestled in a picturesque natural setting surrounded by Mediterranean scrub, offering beautiful views.
While not explicitly mentioned, the road access suggests that parking is likely available near the sanctuary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The sanctuary has limited public access. It's typically open every afternoon, Monday to Friday, from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm. On Saturdays, it's open for services at 10:00 am and 9:30 pm. Always verify current hours as they can change.
There is no mention of ticket sales; entry is generally free, but access is restricted to specific hours.
No, the sanctuary is not always open to the public. It has specific afternoon hours on weekdays and limited times on Saturdays.
Information regarding Sunday opening hours is not readily available, and it's often closed on Sundays. It's best to check for specific event schedules.
Yes, the church is open for special occasions, including summer concerts, and is also a Jubilee church.
📸 📸 Photography
While not explicitly stated, photography is generally permitted in churches for personal use, but it's always respectful to check for any signage or ask permission, especially during services.
The surrounding natural landscape offers beautiful views of the Stella Gulf, making it ideal for landscape photography.
Drone footage has been captured around the sanctuary, showcasing its unique location and the surrounding scenery.
Photography of the artwork inside may be restricted. It's advisable to be discreet and respectful if you choose to take photos.
During afternoon opening hours, natural light will filter in. Evening services might offer a more atmospheric, potentially darker, setting.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can find a 16th-century painting of the Madonna and Child attributed to the school of Michelangelo, and an 18th-century pipe organ that is still in use.
It is a 16th-century sanctuary housing an important image of the Madonna and is recognized as a Jubilee church.
Despite its limited hours, the natural setting and the sanctuary's purpose suggest it can be a place for quiet contemplation, especially outside of service times.
Details on facilities are scarce, but given its location, basic amenities might be limited. It's advisable to come prepared.
The sanctuary is described as a beautiful 16th-century church, with an 18th-century pipe organ, suggesting a blend of historical architectural elements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and History of the Sanctuary
Beyond the painting, the sanctuary boasts a magnificent 18th-century pipe organ, which remains in use today. This musical instrument is a testament to the sanctuary's enduring legacy and its role in community life. The sanctuary is also recognized as a Jubilee church, highlighting its spiritual significance and its role in pilgrimage traditions.
Visitors often remark on the sanctuary's picturesque natural setting, overlooking the Stella Gulf. This serene environment enhances the spiritual experience, offering a peaceful retreat for reflection and prayer. The blend of art, history, and natural beauty makes the Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie a unique destination.
Navigating Access and Visiting
Reaching the sanctuary offers two distinct experiences. For a quicker arrival, a 2km road from Capoliveri provides direct access. Alternatively, for those who appreciate a more immersive journey, a scenic trail winds through the Mediterranean scrub, taking about an hour to complete. This trail is often enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for its natural beauty and the sense of discovery it offers.
While the sanctuary itself is the main draw, the surrounding area also provides wonderful views of the Stella Gulf. This makes the visit worthwhile even if access to the interior is temporarily restricted. The combination of its unique location, artistic treasures, and specific visiting requirements makes the Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie a destination that rewards careful planning.
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