Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
The Sanctuary of Nostra Signora del Carmine in Lavagna, built between 1617 and 1631 by the Discalced Carmelite friars, is an emblem of the religious fervor that has characterized Liguria for centuries. This sacred place is more than just a church: it is a symbol of devotion, art and history that has withstood the turbulence of time.
History and Transformations
During the Napoleonic era, the convent was abandoned by the friars, forced to seek refuge elsewhere. The sacred walls were transformed into post offices, courthouses and elementary schools. However, in 1806, the church regained its sacredness, returning to being a beacon of faith in the heart of Lavagna.
Art and Architecture
Every stone and fresco in the sanctuary tells a story. The precious marbles, created by the Repetto laboratory in Lavagna, show the art and mastery of those who shaped them with dedication. The frescoes, created by the Sienese Alessandro Franchi and Giuseppe Repetto, take visitors on a journey through time, revealing the secrets of faith and devotion. The walls of the sanctuary are adorned with paintings that capture the eye and the soul, works by masters such as Domenico Fiasella and Orazio De Ferrari. These paintings transport the faithful to worlds of contemplation and miracles, depicting sacred scenes and stories of saints.
The Perpetual Vow
One of the most touching stories linked to the sanctuary is the perpetual vow of the community of Lavagna, made on 16 October 1835. During a cholera epidemic, the citizens implored the protection of the Madonna del Carmine, promising eternal devotion in exchange for salvation. This vow is still fervently respected today.
The Procession
One of the most significant rituals of the sanctuary is the annual procession in honor of the Madonna del Carmine. The streets of Lavagna are filled with faithful, young and old, who participate in this sacred rite. The procession is a moment of community union and devotion, with the presence of illustrious figures such as the mayor Alberto Mangiante, who guide the citizens in this centuries-old tradition.
A Beacon of Faith
The Sanctuary of Nostra Signora del Carmine continues to shine as a beacon of faith in the heart of Lavagna. Keeper of ancient secrets and witness to an indomitable faith, the sanctuary is a place where history and spirituality intertwine, offering visitors an experience of profound contemplation and reflection.
In this way, the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora del Carmine remains a point of reference for the community of Lavagna, uniting past and present in a continuous celebration of faith and tradition.
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