A sacred height where devotion meets the horizon of Reggio Calabria

Where Faith Rises Above the City: The Sanctuary That Guards the Spirit of Reggio Calabria

Standing on the highest hill in Reggio Calabria, the Sanctuary of the Eremo is more than a church. It is a spiritual beacon and a cherished symbol of the city’s soul. For centuries, it has welcomed pilgrims and faithful, especially during the Festa della Madonna della Consolazione.

The sanctuary’s story began in the 16th century. Archbishop Centelles envisioned a permanent space of prayer. Inspired by Franciscan ideals, he oversaw the construction of a cloister and convent, completed in 1569. However, the building suffered irreparable damage in the 1908 earthquake. In 1965, architect Anna Sbaraccani Anastasi gave the basilica new life through a thoughtful reconstruction.

Inside, the sanctuary houses the Vara della Madre della Consolazione. This impressive religious artwork weighs over 12 quintals and stands 5 meters tall. It was crafted in the mid-1500s and is attributed to Calabrian painter Niccolò Andrea Caprioli. Every September, the Vara becomes the centerpiece of the city’s most beloved procession. Devotees, known as the “portatori della Vara,” carry it over 3.5 kilometers to the Cathedral, descending more than 150 meters in elevation.

Beyond its sacred function, the sanctuary offers breathtaking views. Visitors can admire the entire city, the Strait of Messina, and even the Sicilian coast. Because of this, the Sanctuary of the Eremo remains one of the most scenic and revered religious sites in Southern Italy.