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Temples #3 in Saronno

Santuario della Beata Vergine dei Miracoli

4.7 · 939 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Santuario della Beata Vergine dei Miracoli, Piazzale Santuario, 2, 21047 Saronno VA, Italy
Interesting facts
1

The sanctuary houses frescoes by Bernardino Luini, specifically the 1525 'Marriage of the Virgin' and 'Dispute with the Doctors'.

2

The complex includes the 'Sala del Santuario,' which preserves a large collection of ex-voto tablets illustrating centuries of local history.

3

The bell tower, completed in 1516, is a notable example of Lombard Renaissance brickwork.

4

The sanctuary was built over a pre-existing 13th-century chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

5

The wooden sculptures in the sanctuary were largely crafted by Andrea da Corbetta and other regional masters of the 16th century.

Overview

The Santuario della Beata Vergine dei Miracoli is a complex architectural site in Saronno renowned for its significant collection of Renaissance frescoes and wooden sculptures. The sanctuary originated in 1498 following reports of a miraculous healing. It features a main church constructed in the early 16th century, later augmented by a tall, elegant bell tower. The interior is famous for the 'Crocifisso' chapel and works by Bernardino Luini, a prominent follower of Leonardo da Vinci. The octagonal tiburio, a characteristic Lombard architectural element, crowns the central structure. The site holds historical significance as a major pilgrimage destination in the Lombardy region. Visitors can view extensive wood carvings and relief work that date back to the early 1500s. The site remains an active place of worship with ongoing maintenance of its delicate artistic interior.

Photo spot

The view of the octagonal tiburio from the main entrance square.

Insider tips

Bring a small flashlight or use your phone light to better see the details of the darker frescoed corners.

Check the official website for local liturgical events, as the church may be restricted to worshippers during mass.

Allow time to visit the adjacent museum rooms if they are accessible during your visit.

What to avoid

Do not use flash photography, as it damages the sensitive 16th-century pigments on the walls.

Good to know

The sanctuary may have limited access during lunch hours and during religious services.

Etiquette

Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered. Maintain silence as it is an active place of worship.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1 hour
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to ensure a quiet environment for viewing the artwork without large groups.
Address
Santuario della Beata Vergine dei Miracoli, Piazzale Santuario, 2, 21047 Saronno VA, Italy
45.626, 9.025
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleLombard Renaissance
Key exhibitsFrescoes by Bernardino Luini

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to ensure a quiet environment for viewing the artwork without large groups..

The view of the octagonal tiburio from the main entrance square.

Close by you'll find Giuditta Pasta Theater, MILS - Museo delle Industrie e del Lavoro Saronnese, Chiesa Prepositurale dei Santi Pietro e Paolo.