The Descent of the Madonna of Soviore in Monterosso: Faith, Tradition, and Community
In front of us, Angela gently leafs through a small, timeworn book. Her fingers trace names, dates, and handwritten donations: “Motto Giovanni fu Giovanni – Venezuela – 50 pesos”, “Fogliata Giulia – La Spezia – 700”, “Moggia Domenica – Monterosso – 300”. These humble yet meaningful offerings tell a story of devotion, gratitude, and hope. Generation after generation, these gestures have created an invisible thread linking the past to the present, keeping alive a centuries-old promise in the name of the Madonna of Soviore.
📅 From September 28 to October 5, 2025, Monterosso will host a unique event that takes place only once every 25 years. The Madonna of Soviore, kept in the oldest sanctuary in Liguria, will descend to the village in a solemn procession. This tradition has been documented since 1749, when a papal bull by Pius VII established that the statue should be carried on foot down to the Church of San Giovanni Battista.
The descent of the Madonna is more than a religious rite—it is a moment of community. The narrow alleys of Monterosso come alive with chants, prayers, and footsteps shared by locals and visitors alike. Every person becomes part of a pilgrimage that blends spirituality and history, transforming Monterosso into a place of gathering, devotion, and celebration.
🪙 To support the festivities, donation boxes have been placed in several local businesses. Contributions can also be made directly via bank transfer to the following account:
👉 IBAN: IT10J0623049791000046531108
Reference: Festeggiamenti Nostra S. Soviore
Participating in this initiative means not only honoring tradition but also strengthening the bond with Monterosso’s cultural and spiritual roots.
Let us be inspired by Angela’s story and those worn pages that preserve the memory of humble souls who gave thanks and sought protection. Once again, the Madonna of Soviore descends among her people, bringing with her the enduring strength of a community that never forgets.
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