In addition to light-hearted activities, such as dancing and festivals, our area has much more to offer. One very important aspect of Bedonia is as the cultural and religious heart of the Taro Valley Apennine Mountains. For this is where the Episcopal Seminary of the Madonna di San Marco rises, a monumental construction overlooking the town itself, in all its majestic glory. Since 1846 it has represented a first-class cultural institution. During its history, nearly 2500 students received their formation within its walls, more than 670 of which were ordained as priests. The last 6 young men to prepare for priesthood left the structure in 1981. Although its functions have partially changed over the years, the Seminary retains its great importance as a major cultural pole in the area.
Adjacent to the impressive building stands a more magnificent construction – the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Consolation – commonly known as “Madonna di San Marco”. This place of worship originated in 1600, when – as legend would have it – a group of traveling Venetian merchants were attacked by thieves in the area, and were miraculously liberated thanks to the intercession of the Mother of Consolation. They consequently had a tiny church built, which they named “Cappellina del Pozzo” (the Well Chapel), as a way of thanking and honouring their saviour. This little chapel, which was incorporated in the Crypt constructed around it from 1939 and 1955, maintains its original beauty. The chapel now houses an ancient Ligurian altar carved in marble dating back to 1716 and the resting place of St Alexander’s relics.
Directly above the Crypt rises the spectacular Basilica with its Greek cross plan, from which two colonnades reach out from both sides like welcoming arms. The 50-meter high dome completed in 1958 has a diameter of 15 meters, a lantern and large windows which illuminate the whole sanctuary. There are different grades of importance regarding places of worship: Duomo, Cattedrale and Basilica. In 1978 Pope John Paul I promoted the Sanctuary to Basilica thanks to its history and artistic value.
To be continued….