A humble shrine stands before us. This is the Santuario Madonna della Fametta. Its origins are shrouded in mystery. We know little about its beginnings. Records only truly begin in 1931. That year Cardinal Eugenio Tosi visited. He noted a small oratory. It was dedicated to the Madonna. It dated back to roughly 1808. It was in good condition. The Blessed Sacrament was not kept there. Only one altar existed. The Marchesa Sormani widow Crivelli owned it. Masses were held there several times a year.
The Santuario Madonna della Fametta is more than just a building. It’s a place of deep devotion. It served the people of Castellazzo. People from nearby Garbagnate and Bollate also visited. The Santuario Madonna della Fametta held a special place in their hearts. During World War II soldiers’ photos were brought here. They were placed under the Madonna’s protection. Many ex-votos adorned its walls. These were offered in thanks for blessings received. The largest pilgrimage in recent years came from Turate. Three buses arrived filled with young people. They came to honor our Madonna.
The name itself remains a puzzle. Why “Fametta”? Many theories exist. One suggests it comes from “fa-meta”. This means meeting point. The Santuario Madonna della Fametta served as a meeting place. People from Garbagnate and Bollate met there. The countryside and the city united in faith. Another theory points to the word “famei”. This means family member. Perhaps it refers to farming families working the land. A fresco of the Holy Family above the altar supports this. Yet another theory links it to hunger. “Fametta” might mean a little hunger. The poor soil yielded little. Farmers often went hungry. Another popular belief says the name is related to the plague. A little hunger indicated recovery. Local legend says walking to the Santuario Madonna della Fametta induced a little hunger. The journey stimulated appetite.
Regardless of its origins the Santuario Madonna della Fametta holds a special place in history. It reflects the faith and devotion of the people. It stands as a testament to their enduring hope. The Santuario Madonna della Fametta continues to be a place of solace and prayer. It is a place where people find comfort and connection with their faith. Let us reflect a moment on its enduring legacy.