Montovolo - Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Consolation and Oratory of Saint Catherine of Alexandria - Balzo di Santa Caterina - Grizzana Morandi (BO) - Emilia Romagna

Known as the "Sinai Bolognese," this sanctuary, dating back to 1211, stands on an ancient pagan site, where legend has it that the statue of the Madonna was carved from a simulacrum of the goddess Isis. Before the famous Sanctuary of San Luca was built, this was the center of devotion throughout Bologna... #tuttitaly

Leap Position📍 Sanctuary Position📍    Video 🎥

Montovolo - Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Consolation and Oratory of Saint Catherine of Alexandria - Balzo di Santa Caterina - Grizzana Morandi (BO) - Emilia Romagna

In Montovolo, there is the sanctuary of the Beata Vergine della Consolazione. The primitive church was built before 1000 on a pre-existing pagan temple, as evidenced by the ancient name of Monte Palense, dedicated to the rural goddess Pale, the object of worship of the Etruscans, first and later of the Romans.

Almost on the summit is the oratory of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria. The chapel is a stone construction, with a door in the center. The altar rises on two steps, and the wall on it rests is pierced by three windows-like slits from which the light filters. A little above, we find the leap of the veil or Santa Caterina. From here, it is possible to enjoy a magnificent panorama.

The view from the top of Montovolo sweeps up to Corno, Cimone, and the peaks of the Prato Apennines. You can admire the Reno Valley and enjoy an almost complete view from Porretta to Casalecchio. Finally, the sanctuary of San Luca almost lends itself to closing the scenario.

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Montovolo - Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Consolation and Oratory of Saint Catherine of Alexandria - Balzo di Santa Caterina - Grizzana Morandi (BO) - Emilia Romagna