Overview
A spiritual mountain retreat
A small hamlet in the municipality of Biella, Oropa is best known for its Sanctuary and the Sacro Monte complex, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. Oropa has become an important sacred and spiritual destination over the years, but the area also offers fascinating sporting and natural attractions, making it the perfect destination for hikers, mountaineers and families. The Adventure Park, Botanical Garden and Cable Car are popular among visitors.
The Sanctuary of Oropa is at the heart of the Sacro Monte complex, which features chapels, religious buildings and striking porticoes. Built at an altitude of 1,159 metres, it has become one of the most important Marian sanctuaries in the Alps.
Inside the Old Basilica, built in the 17th century on the ruins of the ancient church of Santa Maria, of which it preserves precious evidence, 14th-century frescoes provide a backdrop to the statue of the Black Madonna by an anonymous Aosta Valley sculptor in the 13th century. A blue cloak, dress and golden hair frame the face painted black.
13900 Oropa BI, Italy
