Montesenario

Perched on the top of one of the most evocative hills of Mugello, the Sanctuary of Montesenario is a place of great spiritual, historical, and artistic charm. Founded in the 13th century by the Seven Holy Founders of the Order of the Servants of Mary, the sanctuary is a landmark for pilgrims and travelers, as well as a place rich in art, culture, and monastic tradition. The name Montesenario comes from the Latin Mons Senarius, referring to the six mountains surrounding the area, although tradition links it to the Seven Holy Founders of the Order of the Servants of Mary. In 1233, these seven noble Florentines retreated to the mountain in search of a life of prayer and penance, giving rise to a monastic community that would over time become an important religious reality. The first church was built in 1250, followed in the centuries that followed by expansions and renovations that transformed Montesenario into a sanctuary of great significance for Tuscan spirituality. The Sanctuary of Montesenario has always been a place of reflection and contemplation for religious and pilgrims. The Order of the Servants of Mary, born here, spread throughout Europe, contributing to the spread of Marian spirituality. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Montesenario became a destination for the faithful who went there to obtain indulgences and blessings. Even illustrious figures linked to the Church and Italian culture visited the sanctuary over the centuries. Inside the sanctuary, numerous valuable works of art are preserved, including the Chapel of the Seven Holy Founders, which houses the relics of the founders of the Order, paintings and frescoes of the Florentine school, narrating the history of the sanctuary and its saints, the wooden Crucifix from the 14th century, a work of intense spiritual expressiveness, and the statue of the Sorrowful Madonna, an object of particular veneration among the faithful. The surrounding environment, rich in centuries-old woods and breathtaking panoramic views, enhances the charm of this place of peace and spirituality. Throughout its long history, Montesenario has been led by prestigious abbots and superiors who have contributed to the growth of the sanctuary and the spread of the Servite spirituality. Among these, stand out figures like Fra Paolo Masi, who in the 17th century promoted a renewal of the Order, and Fra Sostegno Maria di Gesù, known for his preaching and spiritual guidance. Numerous popes and saints have recognized the importance of Montesenario, and even today the sanctuary is a training ground for the Servants of Mary. It is said that the Seven Holy Founders received divine signs that guided them in choosing this mountain as a place of retreat. A spring located near the sanctuary is considered beneficial for health and spirituality. Even today, many faithful walk ancient paths to reach Montesenario at dawn, combining prayer and contact with nature. In addition to its religious importance, Montesenario is known for the herbal tradition of the Servite friars. Their knowledge of medicinal plants has led to the production of liqueurs and natural remedies, including the famous Gemma di Abete, a distillate with beneficial properties obtained from the maceration of fir buds. Among other products made by the friars are: digestive elixirs and bitters based on medicinal herbs, honey and infusions, gathered in the surrounding woods, and ointments and herbal preparations, handed down from medieval monastic tradition. These products are still appreciated and available to sanctuary visitors, representing a link between spirituality, nature, and the herbal culture of the monks. Today, the Sanctuary of Montesenario is one of the most important spiritual destinations in Tuscany, offering visitors an experience of reflection and beauty. Montesenario remains a symbol of faith, art, and monastic tradition, a place where time seems to stand still, giving those who visit it a sense of peace and wonder. The Sanctuary is located on the Via degli Dei, a path that connects Bologna to Florence and which, in recent years, has seen the passage of over 35,000 people.

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