SANCTUARY OF OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY (also known as MADONNA DELLA PUNTA) - MACCAGNO

Perched on the Punta headland, the Sanctuary combines centuries of religious history with breathtaking views over Lake Maggiore

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary, also known as the Sanctuary of the Punta, stands on a rocky promontory overlooking Lake Maggiore, in a spectacular panoramic position at the entrance to the Gulf of Maccagno Inferiore. Set between the lake and the surrounding hillside, it is one of the area's most distinctive places of worship.

The origins of the sanctuary appear to date back to an ancient oratory built on medieval foundations, possibly connected with the defensive system of the Imperial fief of Maccagno Inferiore. Although this hypothesis has not been fully documented, traces of masonry older than the present building can still be seen on the rocky outcrop.

The earliest documented references to the church date from the 16th century, when it gradually evolved from a simple place of worship into a sanctuary and the seat of the Confraternity of the Rosary.

Over the centuries, the building underwent numerous extensions and alterations. During the 17th century, the carved stone portal, the side chapels, the high altar, the sacristy, and the bell tower were added. In the 18th century, the presbytery, the choir, and the façade were renovated, while preserving elements of the earlier structure.

During the 19th century, the decorative programmes of the chapels were completed. Later, between the 1930s and the 1940s, the interior was entirely frescoed, most likely to mark the inclusion of the sanctuary among the 72 Marian shrines of the Diocese for the Holy Year of 1935.

Today, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary remains an important centre of devotion for the local community. The celebrations of the Annunciation and the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary are especially significant. On the evening of 14 August, the traditional candlelight procession with the statue of the Virgin Mary takes place.

The sanctuary is open to visitors during August, every Friday and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.