Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie
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Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie

4.3
·50 reviews·Madonna delle Grazie, Italy

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

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Best chance for entry

CrowdLow
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Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie

Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Best chance for entry

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.3
(50 reviews)

"A charming place, but I wasn't able to visit inside."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Madonna delle Grazie Painting

Madonna delle Grazie Painting

Inside the Sanctuary

Admire the 16th-century painting of the Madonna and Child, attributed to the school of Michelangelo.

Reddit
18th-Century Pipe Organ

18th-Century Pipe Organ

Inside the Sanctuary

Experience the beauty of a still-functional pipe organ, a testament to the sanctuary's rich history.

Reddit
Scenic Stella Gulf View

Scenic Stella Gulf View

Near the Sanctuary

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Stella Gulf from the picturesque natural setting surrounding the sanctuary.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Check Opening Hours

The Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie has limited public access. It's often open only on weekday afternoons and for specific services on Saturdays. Always verify current hours before your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Getting There & Trails

Access is via a 2km road from Capoliveri or a scenic hour-long trail through Mediterranean scrub. Consider the trail for a more immersive experience, but be prepared for a hike. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Best chance for entry
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday services
Why
Specific open times
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Everyone posts the cathedral built on the side of the cliff but the journey to Santuario Madonna Della Corona shows Jesus’ journey carrying the cross to the tomb.
@herbababe_24
380.1K likes • 1.9M views

🎯 Verify Hours Before You Go

Public access is limited; check weekday afternoon and Saturday service times. Reddit+1

👟 Hike the Scenic Trail

Enjoy a beautiful hour-long trek through Mediterranean scrub from Capoliveri. Reddit

📍 Santuario Madonna della Corona - Monte Baldo Verona⛪🌄 #djiitalia #djiglobal #italy #videodrone #verona #santuariomadonnadellacorona #veneto #santuario
@patryk_b.a.z
69.7K likes • 2M views
Eliana Carbone incontra il Sindaco di Torre di Ruggiero (CZ) ed il Rettore del Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie @calabria @reggiocalabria @ Catanzaro @italia #cultura #storia #radici
elianacarbone2023
43 likes • 1.9K views

🚗 Easy Road Access

A 2km road from Capoliveri offers a quicker, though less scenic, route. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The surrounding area offers stunning vistas of the Stella Gulf. Reddit

Roccella Ionica, rientro al Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie
pasquale_arbitrio
413 likes • 7.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Verify Hours Before You Go

Public access is limited; check weekday afternoon and Saturday service times. Reddit+1

👟 Hike the Scenic Trail

Enjoy a beautiful hour-long trek through Mediterranean scrub from Capoliveri. Reddit

🚗 Easy Road Access

A 2km road from Capoliveri offers a quicker, though less scenic, route. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The surrounding area offers stunning vistas of the Stella Gulf. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(50 reviews)

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

Beautiful artwork
Historic pipe organ
Scenic views

What People Dislike

Limited opening hours
Often found closed

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. Reddit Some visitors have also found connecting trails from Capoliveri. Reddit

The trail is described as being immersed in greenery and is manageable for a jog or a leisurely walk, taking about an hour. Reddit

Yes, there is a good 2km road that leads directly to the sanctuary from just below Capoliveri. Reddit

The sanctuary is nestled in a picturesque natural setting surrounded by Mediterranean scrub, offering beautiful views. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, the road access suggests that parking is likely available near the sanctuary. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

There is no mention of ticket sales; entry is generally free, but access is restricted to specific hours. Reddit

No, the sanctuary is not always open to the public. It has specific afternoon hours on weekdays and limited times on Saturdays. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

Yes, the church is open for special occasions, including summer concerts, and is also a Jubilee church. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram

The surrounding natural landscape offers beautiful views of the Stella Gulf, making it ideal for landscape photography. Reddit

Drone footage has been captured around the sanctuary, showcasing its unique location and the surrounding scenery. TikTokInstagram

Photography of the artwork inside may be restricted. It's advisable to be discreet and respectful if you choose to take photos. Reddit

During afternoon opening hours, natural light will filter in. Evening services might offer a more atmospheric, potentially darker, setting. Reddit

🎫 ⛪ 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. Reddit+1

It is a 16th-century sanctuary housing an important image of the Madonna and is recognized as a Jubilee church. Reddit

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. Reddit

Details on facilities are scarce, but given its location, basic amenities might be limited. It's advisable to come prepared. Reddit

The sanctuary is described as a beautiful 16th-century church, with an 18th-century pipe organ, suggesting a blend of historical architectural elements. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families, the hike through the Mediterranean scrub to the sanctuary can be an engaging adventure for children, offering a chance to explore nature. Reddit However, the limited opening hours might require careful scheduling to align with a child's nap or activity routine. Reddit The scenic views from the surrounding area can also be a pleasant distraction. Ensure you bring water and snacks, as facilities might be minimal. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

The hour-long trail from Capoliveri is a significant draw for hikers, offering a beautiful immersion in the local flora and fauna. Reddit The picturesque natural setting and the panoramic views of the Stella Gulf are highlights that complement the spiritual aspect of the sanctuary. Reddit Consider combining a visit with a longer hike in the surrounding area for a full day of exploration.

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture stunning shots, from the architectural details of the sanctuary to the breathtaking landscapes of the Stella Gulf. Reddit Drone enthusiasts have also showcased the unique vantage points from above. TikTokInstagram Be mindful of the limited opening hours and any restrictions on interior photography to maximize your shooting time.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art and History of the Sanctuary

The Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie is a significant religious site, dating back to the 16th century. At its heart is a revered image of the Madonna delle Grazie, believed to be from around 1548 and attributed to the school of Michelangelo. This artistic connection adds a layer of historical and cultural importance to the sanctuary. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit The blend of art, history, and natural beauty makes the Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie a unique destination.

Navigating Access and Visiting

Planning a visit to the Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie requires attention to its specific opening hours. Unlike many tourist sites, it has limited public access, typically open on weekday afternoons from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm and for specific services on Saturdays. Reddit This means spontaneous visits might be challenging, and checking the most current schedule is crucial to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Reaching the sanctuary offers two distinct experiences. For a quicker arrival, a 2km road from Capoliveri provides direct access. Reddit Alternatively, for those who appreciate a more immersive journey, a scenic trail winds through the Mediterranean scrub, taking about an hour to complete. Reddit This trail is often enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for its natural beauty and the sense of discovery it offers. Reddit

While the sanctuary itself is the main draw, the surrounding area also provides wonderful views of the Stella Gulf. Reddit 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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