High in the breathtaking mountains of northern Italy lies an incredible Christian pilgrimage site: the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona. Built into a nearly vertical cliff, it’s remarkable for its daring architecture, spiritual significance, and panoramic views. In this post, we’ll share the Sanctuary’s history, where it is located, and how to get there, so more travelers can experience this unforgettable place in Italy.
We were amazed by the beauty of the site, both the Sanctuary itself and the surrounding area. We kept wondering how people managed to build something like this so long ago. It’s truly impressive and wonderful — we’ve never seen anything like it! 🙏
Where Is the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona?
The Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is located in the province of Verona, in the Veneto region of northern Italy. Perched 774 meters above sea level, it clings to a cliff that looks suspended between heaven and earth, offering breathtaking views of the Adige Valley below.
The Sanctuary is just a 47-minute drive (about 46.7 km) from Verona. We’ve added the map below to make it easier to find:
The History of the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona
This sanctuary began in the 12th century as a secluded place of prayer. Its current form took shape in the 16th and 17th centuries, when a church was built into the rock. Hermits chose the spot for its tranquility. Over time, it became a pilgrimage site due to a statue of the Madonna, which legend says was brought there by angels. The original statue was stolen in 1978 and never recovered, but today a faithful replica stands in its place.
Best Time to Visit the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona
The best time to visit the Sanctuary is in spring (March 21 to June 20) and autumn (September 21 to December 20), when temperatures are milder and the surrounding landscape is stunning. July and August are busier due to summer holidays. For a more peaceful visit, consider traveling in the off-peak months, when you can also attend special masses during Holy Week and other religious celebrations.
How to Get to the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona
You can reach the Sanctuary in different ways:
By Car:
- From Verona: Take the A22 motorway and exit at Affi-Lago di Garda Sud. Follow signs to Costermano and then Spiazzi. The sanctuary is about 30 minutes from the highway exit.
- From Milan or Venice: Use the A4 motorway, switch to the A22 toward Brennero, and follow the same directions via the Affi exit.
- Parking: There are several free parking areas near the Sanctuary. On weekends and holidays, they fill up quickly, so consider arriving early.
If you plan to rent a car, we recommend DiscoverCars, where you can compare the best options, read reviews, and find great prices.
Valuable tips for drivers Driving in Italy: Essential Tips for Car Rental, Tolls, Parking, and ZTL Zones and How to Rent a Car in Italy: Complete Guide for Travelers
By Bus:
- From Verona: Take a bus from Verona Porta Nuova station to Caprino Veronese. From there, transfer to another bus to Spiazzi, the closest stop to the Sanctuary.
- Schedules: Bus times can vary, especially on weekends and holidays. We recommend checking the latest timetable on the ATV website, the local transport company.
- If you don’t have a car, another option is to book a day tour from Verona. Here’s a link:
👉 From Verona: Day Trip to Madonna della Corona
Whether you arrive in Spiazzi by car or bus, you’ll need to walk about 15 minutes to reach the Sanctuary or take the “Shuttle bus 499”. The shuttle drops you right at the Sanctuary entrance and costs €2 one way or €3.50 round trip, running every 10 minutes. We walked, and it was a pleasant stroll, with beautiful views and several statues along the way.
Other Useful Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk from the parking area to the Sanctuary.
- Check mass times and other religious events if you want to participate. There are also small restaurants and shops nearby where you can buy souvenirs and taste local food.
- Bring coins to light a candle and make your prayer. 🙏
- Shorts and sleeveless tops are not allowed inside the Sanctuary. Signs at the entrance remind visitors to respect local rules.
For more Italy travel tips, check out:
Verona Travel Guide: Top Things to Do in 1 Day
Sirmione Lake Garda: Top Things to Do and See
Venice Travel Guide: What to See, When to Go & How to Visit
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