In 1601 miraculous healings occurred before an image of the Madonna del Latte. This was near Gallarate on the road to Milan. The Santuario di Madonna in Campagna’s story begins here. People decided to build a shrine. On December 19 1602 the first stone was laid. The Santuario di Madonna in Campagna was born.
This wasn’t just any chapel. It became a vital part of Gallarate’s life. The Santuario di Madonna in Campagna witnessed immense devotion. It offered solace during times of hardship.
The year 1630 brought a devastating plague. Alessandro Manzoni describes this in The Betrothed. Many died in Gallarate. People vowed a pilgrimage if spared. They were. The Rama di Pomm festival began. It continues to this day. Apples called pomm are sold on the grounds. They are placed on thorny branches of the Gleditsia tree. This is a unique tradition.
The Santuario di Madonna in Campagna’s main altar is magnificent. Giovan Battista Rigoli began its construction in 1666. Giuseppe Rosnati finished it in 1686. He was the chief sculptor at Milan Cathedral. The altar is stunning. It is full of precious marbles and polychrome inlays. Rosnati’s statues are exquisite. They blend classic beauty with Baroque style. The original image of the Madonna del Latte is at the center. Its creator is unknown. He was a follower of Foppa. He worked around the 15th and 16th centuries.
The Santuario di Madonna in Campagna houses many other artworks. These include paintings by the Campi brothers. There is also a piece by Carlo Cane. It’s his only documented work. A painting attributed to Nuvolone is there. There is even a 1700s Madonna di Caravaggio. It’s in the style of Biagio Belotti. A 17th century Lombard school painting depicts the Trinity. An Annunciation from an Emilian school is present. The Madonna delle sette spade is another highlight. It dates from the 17th-18th centuries.
In 1801 a new confraternity was founded. It is called the Confraternity of Devotion. Francesco Ambrosoli donated a large polychrome wooden crucifix. This dates from the 16th century. It came from a suppressed convent in Milan. The interior then took on its neoclassical look. The current facade dates from 1807. It was designed by Gaetano Borgomaneri. The 33-meter-high brick bell tower was built from 1756 to 1757. The current bells were installed in 1946.
The Santuario di Madonna in Campagna’s story is one of faith and resilience. It is a testament to the enduring power of devotion. It stands as a beautiful symbol of hope. Its artworks and traditions are a legacy. This place has witnessed centuries of prayer and celebration. It continues to inspire awe in all who visit. Step inside. Experience its tranquil beauty and rich history for yourself.