The Sanctuary of Santa Maria in Monte Penice, majestically located at an altitude of 1,460 metres on the summit of Mount Penice, is a place rich in history, spirituality and scenic beauty. This fascinating ecclesiastical building, in the municipality of Bobbio, in the province of Piacenza, stands as a symbol of Marian devotion and offers an extraordinary panoramic view over the Trebbia Valley, the Staffora Valley and beyond, all the way to the snow-capped Alps on particularly clear days.
History and Origins
The roots of the sanctuary go back to the 7th century, when a primitive building was erected dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Legend has it that Saint Columbanus, an Irish missionary, made a promise to Theodolinda, Queen of the Lombards, which led to the veneration of the Madonna on this peak. The building seems to have developed on an ancient Celtic-Ligurian pagan temple, as indicated by the discovery of a bronze statuette dating back to the 1st-2nd century, which is currently kept in the Montegalletto castle in Genoa.
Architecture and Renovations
The stone building has undergone several transformations over the centuries. In 1904, based on a design by architect Cecilio Arpesani, work began on the portico in front of the building, which was completed the following year. The statue of the Redeemer was placed in 1900, while the new bell tower, designed by architect Mazzino di Genova, was built in 1968. Recently, the sanctuary has undergone extensive renovation, restoring the exterior to the splendour of exposed stone and the interior to its original architectural details.
Artistic and Religious Heritage
Inside the sanctuary, visitors can admire the precious wooden statue of the Virgin and Child, dating back to the period between the late 1500s and early 1600s. Also of interest is the statue of St Bartholomew, an original from the 18th century. The church houses a collection of icons, significant examples of Oriental artistic production.
Pilgrimages and Festivals
The Sanctuary of Santa Maria in Monte Penice has been a place of pilgrimage and Marian devotion for centuries. The annual festival is traditionally held at the end of summer, on the second Sunday of September, attracting the faithful and curious from all over the surrounding area. A torch-lit night procession at Ferragosto, from the Penice Pass to the summit, celebrates the feast of the Madonna dell‘Assunta.
Panorama and accessibility
The summit of Mount Penice can be reached via a road about 4 km long that starts from the Penice pass. The climb offers a spectacular panorama of the Alps and Apennines, providing moments of contemplation and silent reflection.
The Sanctuary of Santa Maria in Monte Penice continues to be a place of spiritual connection, history and natural beauty, attracting visitors seeking tranquillity and inspiration on the peaks of the Apennines.
