Photo: © Sabrina Alvezzola - @insightemotions

Among the prized locations in the province of Varese stands the renowned Sacro Monte di Varese, a site of great spiritual and artistic significance, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2003.

You were wondering what to visit in Italy and found out  Varese? Among the many treasures this city holds, the principal one is Sacro Monte di Varese, an important pilgrimage site known for its captivating frescoed chapels and the picturesque Via Sacra, attracting visitors from around the world every year.

If you're looking for a scenic walk in Varese, one of the best options is along the Via Sacra of Sacro Monte. This panoramic route winds through historic chapels, offering spectacular views of the surrounding lakes and the Alps, making every step an unforgettable experience.

The history of Sacro Monte di Varese dates back to the late 16th century when it was built as a place of worship and pilgrimage. Sponsored by San Carlo Borromeo, Archbishop of Milan, the devotional path construction began in 1604 and continued for several decades, involving talented artists and architects. The result is a complex of 14 frescoed chapels, each dedicated to a moment in the Passion of Christ, stretching along a two-kilometer path.

In addition to the sacred path, Sacro Monte di Varese also hosts two important museums that enrich visitors' experiences and provide excellent alternatives for indoor activities during inclement weather in Varese. The Museo Baroffio e del Santuario, located near the summit, showcases a collection of sacred art, paintings, and sculptures recounting the history of the Sanctuary and Marian cult. The second museum is Casa Museo Pogliaghi, exhibiting the works and private collection of artist Lodovico Pogliaghi, renowned for designing the central door of Milan Cathedral. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Pogliaghi's life and work, featuring a wide array of art, furniture, and artifacts from around the world.

Sacro Monte di Varese has inspired many artists, including Leo von Klenze, who captured the beauty of this location in his painting "Der Monta Sacro von Varese in der Lombardei." This masterpiece is now housed at the Staatsgalerie in Stuttgart, Germany, a testament to the fame and influence of Sacro Monte in European art.

To reach Sacro Monte di Varese, simply start from the city of Varese and follow signs to the mountain. The summit can be reached on foot, by bus line C, or by funicular, where you'll be rewarded with extraordinary panoramic views overlooking the valley below. For information on site accessibility, you can consult the dedicated page on the Lombardy Region website.

Visiting Sacro Monte di Varese offers a unique experience where spirituality and natural beauty converge. Explore the frescoed chapels, delve into the museums, breathe the fresh air of the Lombardian mountains, and be enchanted by the magic of this historic site. Varese awaits to provide you with a journey that will leave an indelible mark in your memories.