Gigantic basilica in a small village: a baroque marvel!

Gigantic basilica in a small village: a baroque marvel!

Vicoforte, a tranquil community in the northern Italian province of Cuneo, has made a name for itself thanks to an extraordinary landmark: the Basilica Santuario Regina Montis Regalis. This monumental church, designed in the magnificent Baroque style, is not only the main feature of the small village, but also an important architectural and cultural heritage of Italy. The basilica houses the largest elliptical dome in the world, measuring an impressive 75 meters high and 35 meters in diameter.

The construction of the basilica can be traced back to the Savoyard dynasty, which initiated the construction of the sanctuary in the late 16th century. Previously there was a modest medieval shrine on this site, which housed a 15th-century fresco depicting the Madonna and Child. A crucial event in the history of the rock sanctuary occurred around 1590, when a hunter hit the image of the Virgin Mary during a shooting game, which then allegedly began to bleed. This miracle story contributed significantly to the place becoming a center of pilgrimages.

Importance of the basilica

The basilica was declared an Italian national monument in 1880 and was given the status in 1935 by Pope Pius XI. the title “Basilica minor”. The ceiling paintings, dealing with the theme of redemption, were completed in 1748 by artists Mattia Bortoloni and Felice Biella and cover more than 6,000 square meters. Visitors have the opportunity to view these works of art from a height of up to 60 meters.

Construction of the basilica continued in the 18th century under the direction of architect Francesco Gallo, who constructed the distinctive dome. Gallo had to remove the scaffolding himself to prove that the structure could stand on its own, as many people doubted its stability. The building finally took on its current form in 1884 with the completion of the campanili and the three facades.

Place of pilgrimage and royal resting place

In addition to its architectural splendor, the basilica played a central role in the life of the Italian monarchy. On December 15, 2017, the remains of Queen Elena of Italy were secretly transferred from Montpellier, France to the San Bernardo Chapel in the sanctuary. Just two days later, the remains of King Vittorio Emanuele III were found. made their way out of St. Catherine's Cathedral in Alexandria, Egypt, and were buried next to the former queen.

The Santuario Regina Montis Regalis Basilica remains a significant attraction for tourists and pilgrims who wish to experience the cultural and historical aspects of this amazing structure. The combination of faith, history and impressive architecture makes Vicoforte and its basilica a unique destination in Italy.

Important information about the basilica:

• Höhe der Kuppel: 75 Meter
• Durchmesser der Kuppel: 35 Meter
• Fläche der Deckengemälde: über 6000 Quadratmeter
• Jahr der Erklärung zum Nationaldenkmal: 1880
• Weihe zur „Basilica minor“: 1935

[ReiseReporter] reports that Vicoforte has become a significant destination thanks to the basilica, while [Wikipedia] provides important historical details about the sanctuary's development.