Sacro Monte di Ossuccio
By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 11 January 2024
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The Sacro Monte of Ossuccio is a religious sanctuary, situated within the Province of Como. Since 2003, it's been a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy heading.
Places of interest nearby include the lakeside locations of Isola Comacina, Sala Comacina and Villa del Balbianello. |
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Sacro Monte di Ossuccio, also known as the Sacred Mountain of Ossuccio, is a religious complex located in the village of Ossuccio, on the western shore of Lake Como in Lombardy, northern Italy.
It is one of the nine Sacri Monti (Sacred Mountains) in the region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is renowned for its beautiful chapels, sculptures, and panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding landscape.
Sacro Monte di Ossuccio is perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of Lake Como and the nearby mountains. The complex comprises fourteen chapels, each dedicated to different episodes from the life of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. These chapels are interconnected by a winding walking path that meanders through terraced gardens and woods.
The chapels are adorned with exquisite frescoes, statues, and stucco decorations, created by various artists over the centuries. The artwork portrays scenes from the Bible and Christian history, adding to the spiritual and artistic significance of the site.
It is one of the nine Sacri Monti (Sacred Mountains) in the region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is renowned for its beautiful chapels, sculptures, and panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding landscape.
Sacro Monte di Ossuccio is perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of Lake Como and the nearby mountains. The complex comprises fourteen chapels, each dedicated to different episodes from the life of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. These chapels are interconnected by a winding walking path that meanders through terraced gardens and woods.
The chapels are adorned with exquisite frescoes, statues, and stucco decorations, created by various artists over the centuries. The artwork portrays scenes from the Bible and Christian history, adding to the spiritual and artistic significance of the site.
History
The construction of Sacro Monte di Ossuccio began in the early 17th century and continued into the 18th century. The site was established as a place of pilgrimage and devotion, where visitors could reflect on the life of Christ and the Christian faith.
The chapels and artwork at Sacro Monte di Ossuccio were financed by local noble families and benefactors, resulting in a beautiful fusion of architectural styles and artistic expressions.
The chapels and artwork at Sacro Monte di Ossuccio were financed by local noble families and benefactors, resulting in a beautiful fusion of architectural styles and artistic expressions.
Key features
- Chapel Trail: The main attraction is the Chapel Trail, a walking path that connects the fourteen chapels, each showcasing different religious scenes and figures.
- Panoramic Views: The hillside location offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding landscape.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for visitors, providing insights into the history, art, and religious significance of the site.
- Religious Site: The Sacro Monte di Ossuccio remains an active place of worship, and visitors can attend Mass and participate in religious ceremonies.
- Hiking and Nature: The site is surrounded by nature, and visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through the gardens and woods.
- Accessibility: The complex is easily accessible by car or public transportation, and there are parking facilities nearby.
Sacro Monte di Ossuccio
Village: Ossuccio
Province: Como Region: Lombardy Close by: Isola Comacina, Sala Comacina, Villa del Balbianello Recommended accommodation: Hotel Lenno (3 km) |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy
Year: 2003
Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy
Year: 2003