ORATORY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN - CASTELLO CABIAGLIO

Nestled among the greenery of Monte Martinello and overlooking the valley below, the Oratory of the Blessed Virgin preserves an important artistic heritage

North of Castello Cabiaglio rises Monte Martinello, reaching an elevation of 619 metres. From its summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views over the Valcuvia, Lake Maggiore, and the Borromean Islands. 

Along the mountain slopes, a staircase lined with the Stations of the Cross leads to the Oratory of the Blessed Virgin. The paintings inside the church were created by Paolo Petter, an artist native to the village.

At the top of the hill stands the small church dedicated to Our Lady of Ronchetto, now known as the Oratory of the Blessed Virgin. Set in a commanding position above the village, it is surrounded by lush greenery and offers sweeping views across the valley. 

The oratory is reached by a staircase running up the hillside, flanked by the chapels of the Stations of the Cross. Today, the stations feature bronze reliefs, but they were originally decorated with frescoes by Gianbattista Ronchelli, one of the area's leading artists, who also created the decorative schemes for Palazzo Estense in Varese and Villa Della Porta Bozzolo in Casalzuigno. Built in the 19th century, the oratory has a longitudinal floor plan and an imposing gabled façade.

For information about opening times, please contact the Parish of Sant'Appiano at +39 0332 435818.