Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Castagna: a hidden gem in the Bergamo Hills

The City Culture

10 February 2026

In the heart of the Parco dei Colli di Bergamo, surrounded by the greenery of centuries-old woods, stands the Santuario della Beata Vergine della Castagna.

Particularly beloved by Pope John XXIII, this place of worship is a perfect destination for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, combining spirituality, nature, and tradition.

The sanctuary can be reached via a picturesque tree-lined avenue and is an ideal starting point for excursions within the park.

Where is the Madonna della Castagna located in Bergamo?

The Sanctuary of the Madonna della Castagna is located at via Madonna della Castagna 31, at the base of the hills that rise from the city of Bergamo toward Sombreno.

For those arriving by car, the easiest route is to follow the road between Villa d’Almè and Dalmine; once near Pasticceria Bonati in Paladina, turn into via Bolis.

Continuing on, you pass through the small village of Sombreno and shortly afterward turn into via Bergamo, following the signs for via Madonna della Castagna. The area offers a large free parking area for visitors.

Those who prefer public transportation can take ATB bus line 10 from via Broseta, near the headquarters of the Italian Red Cross. The bus stops on via Bergamo, from where the sanctuary can be reached on foot in about five minutes. The bus journey lasts approximately ten to fifteen minutes.

Historical background: The apparition and the birth of the Sanctuary

The history of the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Castagna is rooted in a miraculous event that occurred on April 28, 1510. For a long time, it was believed that the apparition dated back to 1310, but later studies confirmed 1510 as the correct date.

According to the most widespread tradition, the Blessed Virgin appeared to a farmer working in the fields owned by the priest Giovannino Moroni. The Madonna expressed her wish that the local inhabitants build an oratory dedicated to her, indicating the exact spot where it should rise.

A second version of the legend tells of two men collecting leaves for animals. The Madonna ordered them to erect a sacred building and, as a sign of her presence, miraculously ripened the still-unripe fruits of a large chestnut tree. From this prodigy comes the name of the sanctuary.

Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Castagna

The farmer recounted the event, and many people from Bergamo began to gather to pray and seek grace. Priest Moroni donated the land, and in June 1511 the first stone was laid, along with a building intended to host pilgrims. Initially, it was an open structure, as recorded during the pastoral visit of Saint Charles Borromeo in 1575.

Over the centuries, the sanctuary underwent numerous expansions. Between 1624 and 1627, a stable, a portico with the hermit’s dwelling, and guesthouse facilities were added.

In the 18th century, the nave was enlarged with a new bay and the façade was rebuilt. During the same century, the institution of the “Hermits of Charity” was established, founded according to the teachings of the Jesuit Luigi Mozzi. They devoted themselves to charity in all its forms, including assistance to priests in need.

Description and features of the Sanctuary

The Sanctuary of the Madonna della Castagna is characterized by a gable façade facing north, preceded by a wide churchyard paved with river pebbles.

The main entrance, located at the center, is flanked by two rectangular windows with iron grilles and stone frames. The structure is completed by two side entrances, while the upper part of the façade features a large arch framed by red bricks.

The interior consists of a single nave divided into two bays:

The first bay houses two confessionals and the altar dedicated to the Infant Mary,
The second bay contains the chapel of the Virgin’s apparition, with a square plan and illuminated by a large window,
The presbytery, covered by a ribbed vault, preserves a group of three angels attributed to the Fantoni workshop; on the sides are the scene of the apparition, an organ, and an imposing wooden crucifix.

A short distance from the sanctuary stands a small chapel housing a fresco created by Riva in 1872. The artwork depicts the Blessed Virgin pointing to a chestnut tree laden with ripe fruit, shown to two farmers—one kneeling and the other standing.

During the 20th century, both the chaplain’s residence and the bell tower were built. Later, in 1989, the spaces dedicated to hospitality were expanded by extending the main nave.

Interior of the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Castagna

Hiking trails around the Sanctuary

The Sanctuary of the Madonna della Castagna is an ideal starting point for exploring the Parco dei Colli di Bergamo through a dense network of trails.

Let’s take a closer look:

Madonna della Castagna – Sanctuary of Sombreno route: One of the most popular itineraries is the connection with the Sanctuary of Sombreno, accessible on foot or by bicycle along the cycle path. The loop route, marked as trail 711, passes through mixed deciduous forests, ancient chestnut groves, and cultivated terraced land. It reaches Colle Roccolone (359 meters), offering splendid views over the Brembana Valley, before arriving at the Sanctuary of Sombreno, built at the end of the 15th century.
Sentiero di Ilaria: For a more complete excursion, this circular route of over 7 kilometers with an elevation gain of 300 meters winds through woods and clearings, reaching Colle dei Roccoli (443 meters), the highest point. Along the way, visitors can admire ancient roccoli and breathtaking views of the city and surrounding valleys.
Other connections: From the sanctuary, there are also routes leading toward the Astino Valley, with its ancient monastery and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, as well as toward San Vigilio and its castle. All trails are well marked and suitable for families.

What are the Mass times at the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Castagna?

For those wishing to attend liturgical celebrations, the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Castagna follows a defined winter schedule. On weekdays, from Monday to Friday, Holy Mass is celebrated at 6:00 pm (on Fridays at 4:30 pm).

On Saturdays and the day before public holidays, the Mass is held at 4:30 pm, while on Sundays and feast days there are two celebrations: at 4:30 pm and at 6:00 pm.

These times allow the faithful to attend Mass in the afternoon, perhaps after spending the day walking along the trails of the Parco dei Colli.

The sanctuary is a subsidiary church of the Parish of San Rocco Confessore and is part of the Diocese of Bergamo. For seasonal changes in the schedule or information on special celebrations, it is advisable to consult the official website of the sanctuary or contact the parish directly.

When is the Feast of the Madonna della Castagna celebrated?

The feast of the Sanctuary is celebrated on April 28, the day commemorating the apparition of the Blessed Virgin in 1510. On this date, special religious celebrations are organized, and the faithful gather to remember the miraculous event that gave rise to the place of worship.

The Assumption on August 15, a Marian feast deeply felt by the local community, is also celebrated with particular solemnity.

The Madonna della Castagna Festival: a summer tradition

The Madonna della Castagna Festival is an unmissable summer event that lasts about three months, usually from June to September, transforming the outdoor area of the sanctuary into a gathering place for the entire community.

During the festival, every day for lunch and dinner, visitors can enjoy traditional Bergamo cuisine prepared according to traditional recipes. The bar and restaurant service also offers sandwiches with local cheese and salami, and in recent years a pizzeria has been added. Long wooden tables encourage conviviality.

The program is rich with events for all ages:

Every Wednesday and Saturday afternoon (from 2:30 pm), there are dance afternoons with live music and ballroom dancing,
The free bingo games on Sunday evenings (from 8:30 pm) are very popular,
On Sunday afternoons, children’s shows are often organized, featuring puppets, entertainment, and the ever-popular inflatable games.

Dates for 2026: at the time of writing this article (February 2026), the official dates for the 2026 Festival have not yet been announced.

Based on previous editions, it is likely to begin in the first half of June and continue until mid-September.

Check the official website, the Instagram page @festa_madonna_della_castagna, or L’Eco di Bergamo for the final calendar.

The festival is the perfect opportunity to escape the summer heat, enjoy the coolness of the forest, savor traditional dishes, and experience moments of community in a natural setting.

Discovering the Bergamo Hills by Tuk Tuk

The Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Castagna lies at the heart of an extraordinary area that deserves to be explored at a leisurely pace. The most original way to do so? Hop aboard a Tuk Tuk with Bergamo By Tuk Tuk.

The tours allow you to comfortably reach the sanctuary and explore the surrounding area without effort, traveling along scenic roads through woods and hills. You can discover the Sanctuary of Sombreno, uncover the secrets of the Parco dei Colli, stop at the most scenic viewpoints to take unforgettable photos, and listen to stories and legends told by our expert guides.

A day in the hills aboard a Tuk Tuk will offer you a different perspective on Bergamo, revealing its hidden treasures immersed in greenery. The Sanctuary of the Madonna della Castagna, with its peaceful atmosphere, is the perfect stop for a rejuvenating break—especially during the summer festival, when you can taste local specialties.

Whether you are seeking spirituality, nature, good food, or simply a corner of peace, the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Castagna is sure to captivate you.