The Twelfth Chapel of the Sacro Monte di Varese, dedicated to the Ascension of Christ and built after 1624, stands out for its strategic position along the Via Sacra. The façade is slightly turned to the left, suggesting the continuation of the road past the chapel, creating a considerable scenographic effect. 

The chapel stands out for its sumptuous style, with imposing portico, decorated with sculpted details. Two statues, depicting St Peter and St Anthony of Padua, are to be found in the alcoves and they commemorate the generosity of the patrons, the noble Carcano family from Milan.
A semi-oval portico with eleven arches begins past the side openings, to guarantee as much light as possible. A tall window facing the road makes it possible to admire the scene inside, where Christ is shown as he ascends to heaven, surrounded by angels and apostles. This enthralling depiction is the work of sculptor Francesco Silva, who engraved the left shoulder of the Virgin’s statue with the date, 1632. 
Unfortunately, many of the original frescos, painted by the Lampugnani brothers in 1633 were covered by subsequent interventions, including by Gerolamo Poloni.
 

(Ph: Antonio Zaffaroni)