Did you know there’s a pilgrimage that connects 50 Marian sanctuaries? Rho is one of the central stops along this fascinating route, known as the Way of Saint Augustine.
The name reflects its connection to Saint Augustine of Hippo; the path links three places significant to his life: Rus Cassiciacum (modern-day Cassago Brianza, where his conversion took place), Milan (the imperial capital where he was baptized), and Pavia (home to the saint’s relics).
This spiritual journey winds through Lombardy, combining historical and artistic treasures, offering a fresh perspective on a region rich in faith and history.
This article explores the pilgrimage route, the stop at Rho, and tips to plan this cultural and spiritual journey.
What are the stages of the Way of Saint Augustine?
The Way of Saint Augustine connects 50 Marian sanctuaries in Lombardy, forming 50 stages over a total distance of 770 kilometers.
Fun fact! The route is also known as the Path of the Rose due to its unique shape, which resembles a flower with two leaves and a stem.
- The flower comprises 30 circular stages.
- The eastern leaf can be completed in 4 days, traveling from Milan to Monza.
- The western leaf takes 4 days from Monza back to Milan.
- Finally, the stem connects Monza, Milan, Pavia, and Genoa, over 3 days of walking.
Sanctuaries on the Way: A Journey of Faith and History
The path winds through Lombard cities and towns, including Pavia, Lecco, Milan, Monza, and Rho.
Following the route, you’ll visit sanctuaries built across different eras, showcasing diverse architectural styles from neoclassical to baroque. Each sanctuary tells a story, forming part of a mosaic that reflects Lombardy’s deep Marian devotion.
The Sanctuary of Rho on the Way of Saint Augustine
These stories and symbols go beyond their religious dimension, forming a rich cultural heritage that illustrates how spirituality has influenced Lombardy’s art, history, and traditions.
Rho’s Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sorrows is a central stop along the Way, making it a crucial point for pilgrims.
The sanctuary was designed by Pellegrino Tibaldi in 1583 at the request of Archbishop Carlo Borromeo, to commemorate a miraculous event earlier that year. Local residents reported seeing the Virgin Mary depicted in the Chapel of the Madonna of the Snows shedding tears of blood. This extraordinary event led to the decision to build the sanctuary as a Marian devotion site.
Pilgrim Passport: A Memorable Keepsake
At each stage of the route, pilgrims can collect a stamp on their “pilgrim passport,” a tradition reminiscent of the Camino de Santiago but on an entirely Italian path.
Marian Devotion in Lombardy: A Connection to Tradition
Lombardy is a region steeped in Marian spirituality, evident in its abundance of sanctuaries dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the presence of sacred images, roadside shrines, and votive grottos found on nearly every street corner.
These cultural and spiritual expressions are deeply rooted in the history and identity of the region.
Why walk the Way of Saint Augustine?
Walking the Way of Saint Augustine is an opportunity to embark on a unique spiritual adventure, exploring Lombardy from an entirely new perspective.
Now is the perfect time to plan your journey and uncover the hidden treasures of Marian Lombardy.
Practical Resources
Visit the official Way of Saint Augustine website for GPS tracks and hospitality tips to help you navigate the route.
Love walking trails?
Read “Discovering the Rhodense Resistance” to immerse yourself in Rho’s rich historical past.
