Ciao! My name is Filippo (@sheck). Let me introduce you to the most incredible church in Italy and perhaps the world – Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona. I have visited this place several times because, fortunately for me, it’s easily accessible and only a few hours from my home.
As you can tell by now, I’m Italian. I come from a city called Verona. I’m also a passionate photographer who started several years ago when I received a GoPro as a gift. From that moment, I couldn’t stop capturing photos! Thanks to photography, I get to travel more and more and discover beautiful places around the world and in Italy, like Madonna della Corona.
Why Madonna della Corona Should be on your Bucket List
The first time I visited the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona was a few years ago. I was inspired by the many photos I saw by the many talented photographers who visited. It’s hard to find any buildings built into the cliffside like this anywhere in the world, let alone beautiful churches!
Yet there is more to this destination than just the famous sanctuary which is built inside the rocks of Monte Baldo. It’s also home to a small village. A truly unique location and easily accessible thanks to two paths. If you are a traveler passing through Verona, make sure you stop at this epic place.
Fascinating History of the Church
Before visiting the sanctuary for the first time, I read on some blogs about the history of the church and the reason for its construction. Initially, it was a small chapel that was visited in 1530 by Gian Matteo Giberti – the Bishop of Verona during those years. After this historic visit, the influx of pilgrims increased and they decided to expand it and make it more accessible.
How to Reach the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona
To reach the sanctuary there are two possibilities. The most convenient way is to leave from the parking at Spiazzi (Verona) and walk about 20 minutes. Otherwise, for the more adventurous types, there is a path called Sentiero dei Pellegrini. After two hours of walking and covering over 1500 steps, you will eventually arrive at the stunning Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona.
Your reward after walking for over two hours and heading down the long and exhausting staircase is to be amazed at the incredible construction on the rocks of Monte Baldo. This is the highlight of the region!
Best Photography Spots at Madonna della Corona
Once you reach the sanctuary you can visit inside for free to admire the construction carved into the rock. You can also go exploring around the area to find the best photography spots, one of which is actually just the bus stop. From here, you can take awesome ground-view photos with different angles. Otherwise, flying your drone is the way to get aerial shots.
Need to Know Before you Go
To visit the sanctuary, I suggest staying in Spiazzi or Ferrara di Monte Baldo. Caprino Veronese is another nice spot – 15 minutes by car from the parking of the shorter path. If, on the other hand, you are interested in the 1500 step route – I suggest a hotel in Brentino, Peri or Dolce.
Before heading to the sanctuary, I highly recommend traveling light and dressing in layers because even during the hottest days the wind can still come in strong from the Adige Valley. Most importantly, enjoy your visit!
