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Sanctuary of the Madonna del Poggio in Lubriano: devotion and making the curious panettuzzi
The Sanctuary of the Madonna del Poggio lies just outside Lubriano, on the road to Bagnoregio. Its story begins with a small fresco dating from 1619, venerated for the graces it was believed to have granted. Today, that same image is housed in a Baroque church, at the centre of popular devotion that continues to be expressed through unique rituals — among them, the preparation of the famous panettuzzi.
A church built by sinners
In 1732, Marquis Pompeo del Monte and his wife Anna Rosa Monaldeschi funded the construction of the present church, in order to give the fresco a more worthy home. But a curious detail reveals another truth. Above the entrance doorway, an inscription reads Fabricaverunt peccatores — "Built by sinners" — bearing witness to the many alms given by the faithful in order to complete the work.
The feast and the ritual of the panettuzzi
The devotion is renewed every year on the Sunday after Ascension Day. During the feast, a "signora" (lady) is appointed who, for the whole year, will keep an image of the Madonna and look after the church. Her most special duty is to prepare the panettuzzi — small wafers of unleavened bread made using sewing thimbles and marked with a cross. Blessed and distributed to the faithful, they are a symbol of protection.
The church is an active place of worship. Access is generally free, but opening hours may vary. The Festa della Madonna del Poggio is held every year on the Sunday following Ascension Day, with a procession and the distribution of the panettuzzi.
