Chiesa della Madonna del Bosco

Seeking solace? Let’s ascend to the Chiesa della Madonna del Bosco. This sanctuary, nestled in Imbersago, whispers tales of miracles and papal blessings. Chiesa della Madonna del Bosco isn’t just a church. It’s a beacon of faith, sparked by a vision in 1617. Three young shepherds, tending their flock, reportedly saw a celestial lady amidst the trees near Sorgente del Lupo. Light and heavenly music filled the air. Young Pietro then plucked a ripe chestnut, a fruit out of season, from the branches. This became the first miracle attributed to the Madonna del Bosco, also known as Madonna del Riccio or Madonna delle Castagne. Soon, another miracle followed. A wolf snatched a baby from a family. The mother’s desperate pleas to the Madonna, appearing on a chestnut tree, led to the wolf returning the child unharmed. This event further solidified the belief in the divine presence at Chiesa della Madonna del Bosco. A small chapel, “lo Scurolo,” was built at the site, commemorating the events with a fresco of the Virgin and Child. The Chiesa della Madonna del Bosco we see today rose between 1641 and 1646, designed by Carlo Buzzi. It started with an octagonal plan, a common design for Marian buildings of the 15th century. The church expanded over the years. Another octagon was added in 1677, and a third followed in the late 19th century, which included a new altar and a wooden statue of the Virgin. The connection between Chiesa della Madonna del Bosco and Pope John XXIII adds another layer of significance. He frequently visited the sanctuary, even as a child. In 1954, as Cardinal Roncalli, he crowned the statue of the Virgin and Child. Later, as Pope John XXIII, he fondly remembered Chiesa della Madonna del Bosco as “the smile of my childhood.” He even elevated the sanctuary to a minor basilica. Atop the 349-step Scala Santa, a bronze statue of Pope John XXIII, erected in 1962, overlooks the sanctuary. This monument, with its six bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Pope’s life, stands as a testament to his deep connection with Chiesa della Madonna del Bosco. The church we see now has three naves. The left nave features a Pietà as the altarpiece. The central nave, trilobate in structure, leads to the presbytery and high altar. Ex-votos, 112 painted tablets offered in thanks for answered prayers, adorn the walls, each telling a personal story of faith and devotion.