Historic Churches and Shrines

Lake Maggiore’s shores and surrounding mountains host a diverse array of sacred architecture. This selection includes the cliff-clinging Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso and the prominent Madonna del Sasso pilgrimage site. The list highlights Romanesque structures like the Collegiate of San Vittore in Muralto, the Renaissance frescoes of Santa Maria in Selva, and Mario Botta’s modern Oratorio di Santa Maria degli Angeli. These sites represent centuries of artistic evolution, from medieval stone carvings to contemporary geometric design.

Sanctuary of the Madonna of the Rock

The Madonna del Sasso is a Marian Pontifical shrine in Orselina, above the city of Locarno in Switzerland.

Santa Caterina del Sasso

Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso is a Roman Catholic monastery located in the municipality of Leggiuno, in the Province of Varese and…

Oratorio di Santa Maria degli Angeli

A contemporary chapel designed by architect Mario Botta between 1990 and 1992. Located on Monte Tamaro, it features a distinctive stone walkway and geometric design with frescoes by artist Enzo Cucchi.

Basilica di San Vittore

The principal church of Intra, featuring a prominent 19th-century neoclassical façade and a large dome. The interior houses significant religious artworks and a historic organ.

Chiesa di Santa Maria in Selva

Located in Locarno’s cemetery, this church is known for its well-preserved 15th-century frescoes depicting the life of Mary and the Passion of Christ, executed in the late Gothic style.

Chiesa di Madonna di Campagna

A 16th-century Renaissance church built on the site of an earlier Romanesque building. It features a distinctive octagonal lantern and an interior decorated with frescoes by Bernardino Lanino.

Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta

A Baroque church in Locarno's old town, notable for its ornate stucco work, gilded altars, and a 17th-century facade.

Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi

Originally part of a Franciscan monastery, this church features a Renaissance interior with three naves supported by granite columns and several significant 18th-century paintings.

Chiesa dei Santi Pietro e Paolo

A 16th-century parish church in Ascona, identified by its tall bell tower. It contains a high altar painting by Giovanni Serodine depicting the coronation of the Virgin.

Collegiata di San Vittore

One of the most significant Romanesque buildings in Canton Ticino. Dating to the 11th and 12th centuries, it features a medieval crypt, historic frescoes, and intricate stone carvings.

Madonna della Riva

A lakeside sanctuary in Angera built to commemorate a 17th-century miracle. The church features a Baroque interior and occupies a scenic position overlooking the harbor.

Chiesa parrocchiale di Santa Margherita

The parish church of Meina, located in its historic center. The building features traditional ecclesiastical architecture typical of the Novara diocese.

Chiesa di Santo Stefano

A historic place of worship featuring a Romanesque bell tower. The site has undergone various architectural renovations over the centuries, reflecting local spiritual traditions.

Chiesa di Sant'Anna

A 17th-century church located in the mountain village of Rasa, accessible only by cable car or foot, representing traditional alpine religious architecture.

Chiesa di San Michele

Located in Palagnedra, this church is famous for its exceptional 15th-century fresco cycle by Antonio da Tradate, which depicts the months of the year and religious scenes.