The Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is built precariously on the cliffs of Mount Baldo, approximately 774 meters high in Italy.
Constructing buildings on cliff faces always carries certain inherent dangers. However, for various reasons, they have endured for decades and become popular tourist attractions.
The building suspended between the cliffs, overlooking the Adige River valley.
The Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is a structure nestled against a steep cliff at an elevation of 774 meters, overlooking the Adige River valley in Italy.
This architectural marvel is a church and a pilgrimage site that attracts visitors from around the world. Many choose this stunning location as a place to reflect and pray in tranquility for over 1,000 years.
The breathtaking beauty of nature, with the building hidden among lush greenery and surrounded by towering mountains, provides visitors with a sense of relaxation and peace.
Aerial view of the building.
The building is constructed on a thin rock ledge on Mount Baldo, near Lake Garda. The history of the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona dates back over 1,000 years, originally serving as a retreat for monks associated with the St. Zeno Monastery in Verona, who sought solitude in nature for reflection and prayer.
The structure has undergone numerous renovations and restorations. Each renovation was quite challenging as local craftsmen had to navigate a narrow path along the cliff to reach the site. The earliest section of the building was inaugurated in 1530. By 1625, the structure was expanded, rising 4 meters higher than its original position.
The building decorated with marble from Sant’Ambrogio.
Subsequently, the façade was adorned in the Gothic style as it appears today, added to the building in 1899. It is decorated with marble from Sant’Ambrogio, a small town in the Valpolicella valley.
The complex remained intact until the 20th century, and in the 1970s, the entire structure underwent restoration. From above, the architectural marvel appears to be suspended in mid-air, defying the laws of gravity.
Today, the building clings to the cliffs and welcomes thousands of visitors year-round, those seeking peace and relaxation amid the beauty of nature and artistic history.
Visitors can reach the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona by walking for about 2 hours from the town of Brentino, or they can drive to the town of Spiazzi and then walk up a one-kilometer path.
