Church of Madonna di Cardosa (Visso)

History of the Church of Madonna di Cardosa

The church dates from the 13th-14th century. The name comes from the wild thistles (cardi) that grew in the meadows around the building. In the past it served as a shelter for local shepherds. The complex includes a sacristy and some rooms that were once used as living quarters.

The 2016 earthquake left its mark: the damage made the old building inaccessible.

What to see at the Church of Madonna di Cardosa

The interest of the visit lies in the old building, isolated at altitude, and in the route that leads there. The itinerary crosses woods, clearings and old mule tracks, the former connecting routes between the high-altitude land and the village below. Halfway along is the fonte Vinghetto spring, with a view over the Sibillini and Monte Bove. Monte Cardosa, 1,818 m high, dominates the area.

Visiting the Church of Madonna di Cardosa

After the 2016 earthquake the church remained inaccessible for a long time because of the damage: before going up, it is best to check whether it can be visited again. The building is therefore likely to be closed.

The destination is reached on foot with a loop hike from Borgo San Giovanni, which also passes the fonte Vinghetto. The route is about 14 km long and takes about 6 hours, including stops. It runs almost entirely through woodland, so it is especially suitable in spring and summer. To descend to Visso it is best to follow the road. The descent path is not marked, is overgrown by the woods in places and is suitable only for experienced hikers. As for any mountain hike, it is wise to check the weather before setting out.

Where the Church of Madonna di Cardosa is located

The church is in the municipality of Visso, in the locality of Borgo San Giovanni, high on the slopes of Monte Cardosa. From the village a dirt road leads to the church and continues toward the summit of Monte Cardosa. On the slopes of the same mountain are also Castelsantangelo sul Nera, Nocelleto, Rapegna and Visso.

Around the Church of Madonna di Cardosa

In Visso, the Collegiata di Santa Maria is worth a visit: a Romanesque-Gothic church consecrated in 1256 with 14th-century frescoes of the Umbrian-Marche school. The Museo civico diocesano, which also displayed Leopardi's manuscripts, has been closed since the 2016 earthquake. Outside the town, on a plateau at about 998 m, is the Sanctuary of Macereto in Visso. Other religious buildings in the area are gathered on the churches of the Sibillini Mountains page.