Basílica Santuario de la Madonna del Colle, Lenola

The Sanctuary dates back to the 17th century and was established following a Marian apparition and the conversion of a young man from Lenola, Gabriele Mattei. After begging throughout Europe, he built this temple around a paleochristian effigy (one of the oldest depictions of Mary and baby Jesus in Europe) indicated to him by Mary herself and hidden among thorns and brambles on a nearby hill (hence the name “del Colle”). 

Also interesting is the “botanical miracle” or known as the “miracle of the Cypresses” which have been growing on the travertine marble of the facade for over 4 centuries. 

This phenomenon has not yet been scientifically explained.