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The Basilica of the Most Holy Mary of Suffrage: the Marian Shrine on the Via Cassia
The Basilica-Sanctuary of Maria Santissima del Suffragio is located in Grotte di Castro, a village in the Viterbo area of Tuscia 470 metres above sea level, overlooking Lake Bolsena. The sanctuary was created in the 17th century around a miraculous image of the Madonna, painted on an external wall of the village. In 1625 the votive shrine was transformed into a chapel, then enlarged several times until it became a basilica. Pope Pius IX elevated it to a Marian shrine in 1854.
The Architecture and Interiors
The present façade is 19th-century, Neoclassical, with a triangular pediment and two lateral bell towers. The interior has three naves with columns in local stone and a frescoed barrel vault. The high altar houses the venerated image: Our Lady of Suffrage painted in fresco form in the 16th century, later detached from the original wall and transferred to canvas. The presbytery preserves Baroque stucco work and a pipe organ from 1780, which is still operational.
The Cult and Traditions
The sanctuary is a pilgrimage destination in the Tuscia and northern Lazio area. The main festival is celebrated on the first Sunday of September: a nocturnal procession and illuminations traversing the village. The basilica is open all year round. Grotte di Castro is located on the Via Cassia, 25 kilometres from Bolsena and 30 kilometres from Orvieto, in a strategic position between Lazio, Umbria and Tuscany.
