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Santuario dei Piloni: A Sanctuary of Faith and Art

Discover the Santuario dei Piloni in Montà: a serene pilgrimage site with Romanesque architecture, Via Crucis chapels, and stunning Roero landscapes.

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Nestled in the Roero woods near Montà, the Santuario dei Piloni is a unique sacred site featuring a Romanesque church, the Grotta dell'Agonia, thirteen chapels depicting the Stations of the Cross, and the Holy Sepulchre. This tranquil sanctuary offers a blend of religious history, art, and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Santuario dei piloni

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven paths and inclines while exploring the sanctuary and its surroundings.
  • Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities for purchasing refreshments within the sanctuary grounds.
  • Take your time to explore the surrounding trails and enjoy the panoramic views of the Roero hills and vineyards.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From the center of Montà, follow the signs for Santo Stefano Roero. Turn right towards Santo Stefano Roero, following the yellow sign indicating Santuario dei Piloni. After about 1.5 km, turn right again towards Borgata Laione. Continue for approximately 300 meters to reach a parking area. From there, the chapel is a short walk to the left. Parking is free.

  • Walking

    From the center of Montà, the Santuario dei Piloni can be reached by foot via the Sentiero Religioso, a 6 km circular nature trail. The trail offers scenic views of the Roero area. Be prepared for some uphill walking.

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Discover more about Santuario dei piloni

The Santuario dei Piloni, or Sanctuary of the Pillars, is a captivating destination located in the Roero area near Montà d'Alba. This 'small sacred mountain' in the Piedmont region comprises a Romanesque church, the Grotta dell'Agonia (Grotto of Agony), thirteen chapels dedicated to the Stations of the Cross, and the Chapel of the Holy Sepulchre. The site's history stretches back to Roman times when the area, known as Valdiana (Valley of Diana), was dedicated to the goddess of hunting. A Christian place of worship was established around the year 1000, with a chapel dedicated to the apostles James and Philip. The Romanesque church, which was expanded in the 13th century, still has remnants of its medieval construction, including two Roman heads high on the brick facade. The church was restored and elevated in 1661. The thirteen chapels, or 'piloni,' represent the Stations of the Cross. Constructed in 1775, they were later replaced in 1887 with hexagonal chapels containing polychrome plaster statues that illustrate the Passion of Christ. The path leads to the Holy Sepulchre, which houses a 17th-century sculpture depicting the Lamentation of Christ. The site offers panoramic views from its hilltop location, surrounded by woods and vineyards. The Santuario dei Piloni is also located on the Sentiero Religioso, a 6km nature trail that starts in the historic center of Montà.

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