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The Santuario Madonna della Corona is one of the most serene and picturesque destinations to visit in Northern Italy. This old Basilica dates back to the 15th century, standing the test of time to become the magnificent tourist attraction it is today. Anyone can visit the Basilica anytime for prayers, meditation, or just sightseeing. Official historic records place Santuario Madonna della Corona somewhere at the start of the 16th century. Before then, an older church had been constructed at the same site. The roads leading to the church were not properly demarcated. Religious faithfuls seeking prayer and meditation at the church had to travel a dangerous slippery path overlooking the steep Adige Valley. 

Enter the 16th Century, a new church had to be erected far from the steep slopes. The new church was to be constructed 4 meters above the site of the old church. Construction of the Santuario Madonna della Corona kicked off officially in 1625.

It took several years for Basilica Santuario to be completed. The roof for the church was finally completed around 1664. Afterward, a series of improvements were made to the church with regards to space and overall appearance.

The interior of Basilica Santuario was enlarged to add more space to the sanctuary. Several other rooms were constructed to serve as prayer, meditation, and confession points for visitors. The front yard of the church was redesigned using a classic gothic architecture and Carrara marble.

The second phase of the renovation involved adding decorative sculptures to the church. Two Veronese sculptors were commissioned to decorate the Basilica with their artistic statues. These were Ugo Zannoni and Raffaele Bonente.

A lot of Ugo Zannoni’s statues are erected inside Santuario Madonna della Corona. At the chapel of confessions are two marble statues of St. Maria Maddalena and St. Giovanni Evangelista. At the Chapel of Adoration is the Statue of St Joseph. Also in the same chapel are two statues depicting the Knights of the Malta patrons: San Giovanni Battista and Santa Toscana. Zannoni erected two more sculptures at the Confessions Chapel known as the praying angels.

Sculptures by Raffaele Bonente can be found on the outside of the Basilica. You will notice the scenic impression of the apse etched on the jagged walls leading to the church. Also along the way is the Statue of Pieta which is another of Raffaele Bonente’s work.

Santuario Madonna della Corona opens daily each year. From November through March, gates to the Santuario Basilica open from 8 am and close at 6 pm. April through October, the visiting hours is from 7 am to 7:30 pm.