Cammino di Oropa

In the alpine foothills of Piedmont, where the first snows crown the peaks above, the Cammino di Oropa climbs to one of Italy's most beloved Marian shrines. The Sanctuary of Oropa, set at 1,159 meters amid mountain meadows and forests, has drawn pilgrims for centuries to venerate its ancient Black Madonna - a statue tradition attributes to St Luke himself.

📜 History & Significance

According to tradition, St Eusebius of Vercelli brought the Black Madonna to Oropa in the 4th century, fleeing Arian persecution. Historical evidence confirms a sanctuary here since at least the 13th century, growing steadily until the Savoy dukes transformed it into the magnificent pilgrimage complex that stands today.

The Sanctuary of Oropa was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003 as part of the Sacred Mountains of Piedmont and Lombardy. The statue of the Black Madonna, carved in cedar wood, has been crowned five times - most recently in 1920 - with crowns of precious jewels given by the faithful.

🥾 Route Overview

The Cammino di Oropa covers approximately 60 km from Biella to the Sanctuary of Oropa, typically completed in 2-4 days of walking. The route climbs from the Piedmontese plain into the alpine foothills through forests of chestnut and beech.

From Biella, the path passes through small villages and rural countryside before ascending into the mountains. The final approach offers dramatic views of the vast sanctuary complex, with its churches, cloisters, and pilgrim accommodations arranged around courtyards at different levels.

☩ Key Pilgrimage Sites

The Sanctuary of Oropa comprises multiple churches, the oldest being the Ancient Basilica housing the venerated Black Madonna. The New Basilica, completed in 1960, accommodates the massive crowds during the quinquennial coronation celebrations.

The Sacred Mountain of Oropa, with its 19 chapels depicting the life of the Virgin Mary, offers a contemplative walking circuit above the main sanctuary. The mountain setting - with views to the Alps and the plain below - adds to the pilgrimage's spiritual intensity.