The Marian Way of the Alps is a new trekking route that crosses much of the Valtellina valley, with visits to some of the most important Marian devotional sites in the province of Sondrio.
The project, of significant religious, cultural, and tourist appeal was created to accompany pilgrims who choose to explore the Valtellina ending at the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Tirano.
Passing through ancient villages
The Via Occidentale western way starts in Piantedo, one of the first villages to welcome tourists as they enter the Valtellina. From there you travel through ancient villages that tell the story of this valley, natural landscapes of incredible beauty - most notably the terraced vineyards - and, last but not least, get to enjoy typical dishes that celebrate the region's culinary traditions. This authentic path perfectly combines nature and culture, and along the way the official logo signs point pilgrims in the right direction.
A five-stage trek
The Via Occidentale should ideally be completed in five stages. From the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie and Suffragio in Valpozzo di Piantedo, the starting point, to the Beata Vergine Assunta of Berbenno di Valtellina, there are numerous Marian devotional sites worth visiting in the province of Sondrio.
A pilgrim’s passport
The Marian Way of the Alps also has a passport, which each pilgrim can download from the official website with six stamps, one for each sanctuary of arrival, certifying the completion of the trail. When the pilgrims arrive at their final destination, they will be given the Testimonium, or pilgrimage certification, by the Rector of the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Tirano. This itinerary has been available from June1 and, with the exception of the coldest winter months, will be available all year.
“We are proud of this project”
“We are very proud of this important project,” says Roberto Galli, the president of Valtellina Turismo. "We are sure that the Marian Way of the Alps will satisfy visitors who choose Valtellina as a place to regenerate and discover our authentic nature as well as our sporting and outdoor activities."
For more information:
https://camminomarianodellealpi.it/
https://www.valtellina.it/cammino-mariano-delle-alpi
