Spirituality

Jubilee Churches in the province of Varese: a journey through art, nature and spirituality.

3 minutes

The Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Miracles in Saronno

The Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Sasso in Caravate

The Jubilee is a special event, a privileged time not only for believers but also for those seeking a personal journey of discovery through history, art and tradition.

To experience a profound connection between spirituality and scenic beauty, Varese Welcome Foundation and the Chamber of Commerce of Varese have curated an extraordinary itinerary among the four Jubilee churches in the province of Varese, the churches with the permission to extend the Jubilee's spiritual benefits to believers who cannot make the pilgrimage to Rome. The route combines the timeless charm of sanctuaries and basilicas with the thrill of exploring historic villages, enjoying breathtaking views and walking through green ways. Each stop provides with the opportunity to admire art masterpieces, enjoy the tranquillity of centuries-old places and, for those who wish, immerse in a moment of reflection and contemplation.

The Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Miracles in Saronno

The journey begins at the famous Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Miracles in Saronno, one of the most significant examples of Renaissance religious art in Lombardy. Built in 1498 to enshrine the miraculous image of the Madonna, the sanctuary is renowned for its frescoes by Bernardino Luini and Gaudenzio Ferrari. An authentic gem where spirituality merges with artistic beauty. Distance and useful information to reach the place: Saronno is 26 km away from Milan and 30 km away from Varese, easily accessible by car or train from Milan (20 minutes by Regional Trenord train from Milan Cadorna or 30 minutes by Malpensa Express from Milan Centrale) and from Varese (40 minutes by Regional Trenord train from Varese).

Art and culture

Santuario della Beata Vergine dei Miracoli

Lombardia, Saronno

Going north, the second stop is the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta in Gallarate, the city's main church and one of the most significant religious buildings in the area of Varese. Built in the 12^th century and expanded over the following centuries, the basilica boasts a magnificent neoclassical façade and houses important artworks inside. Distance and useful information to reach the place: Gallarate is about 20 km away from Saronno (20 minutes by car or 15 minutes by regional train).

Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta

Lombardia, Gallarate

The journey continues to the evocative Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte, located on the top of the Sacro Monte of Varese, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A place of extraordinary spirituality and beauty, it is reachable through the Pilgrim trail, a path of 14 chapels depicting the Mysteries of the Rosary. The sanctuary marks the 15^th station, the Coronation of the Virgin. The mystical atmosphere and the view over the Pre-Alps make this stop an unforgettable experience. Distance and useful information to reach the place: Varese is 20 km away from Gallarate (15 minutes by car or 30 minutes by regional train). Visitors can reach the sanctuary by bus (line C), funicular (from Vellone station, 2 minute- ride, from Thursday to Sunday: departures every 10 minutes from 10:00 a.m. to 18:10 p.m.) or walking along the Pilgrim trail leading to the sanctuary (2 km uphill).

Sacro Monte di Varese

Lombardia, Varese

The last, but not least important, stop is the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Sasso in Caravate, nestled in the green hills of the Varese area. This medieval place of meditation has been expanded over the centuries while maintaining its fascinating simplicity. The building is associated with the Passionist order and serves as a reference point for pilgrims in the area. Distance and useful information to reach the place: Caravate is 25 away from Varese (30 minutes by car or 20 minutes by regional train to Laveno Mombello, stopping at Cittiglio station plus a 30-minute walk to the sanctuary).

The suggested itinerary can also be done by bike in multiple stages, providing travellers with a more flexible and personalized experience.

Whether it is a journey of faith or an exploration of the religious and artistic roots of the province of Varese, Jubilee 2025 is an unmissable opportunity to reconnect with one's spirituality, admire historical masterpieces and be enchanted by the mystical atmosphere of these religious places.