The devotion is rooted in an 1432 apparition of the Virgin Mary to a woman named Giannetta in Caravaggio, Italy.
The sanctuary attracts one of the largest religious processions in southern Brazil during its annual anniversary month.
The interior contains a collection of ex-votos, reflecting centuries of local religious gratitude and history.
The sanctuary grounds encompass a large park area designed specifically to accommodate outdoor religious services.
The original image of Our Lady of Caravaggio arrived in Brazil via Italian immigrants in the late 19th century.
The current sanctuary was inaugurated to replace smaller, older chapels that could no longer handle the influx of pilgrims.
The site acts as a major hub for the 'Caminhos de Caravaggio' pilgrimage route connecting several municipalities.
The Santuário Diocesano Nossa Senhora de Caravaggio is a major Catholic pilgrimage destination located in the Serra Gaúcha region of Rio Grande do Sul. The site features a modern sanctuary building completed in 1963 to house the venerated image of Our Lady of Caravaggio. It serves as the primary regional center for devotion related to the 1432 apparition in Italy. The expansive grounds include a Via Sacra, gardens, and multiple chapels. It attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, particularly during the traditional May pilgrimage festivities. The site functions as both a functional parish church and a significant site of religious tourism. It maintains a distinct architectural style influenced by liturgical requirements for large-scale gatherings.
The main staircase facing the entrance, capturing the full façade and the surrounding landscaped plaza.
Visit on weekdays to avoid large crowds from weekend bus excursions.
Walk the outdoor Via Sacra path through the wooded areas for a quieter experience.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to traverse the hilly, sprawling grounds.
Attempting to drive to the site during the peak weekend processions in May, as roads become heavily congested.
Extremely crowded during the month of May; some facilities may have limited access during major religious event days.
Modest dress is required; shoulders and knees should be covered. Maintain silence inside the main sanctuary.
