Patron Saint of Cyclists

Patron Saint of Bicycling: Madonna del Ghisallo

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EPIC CYCLING
Italy is passionate about bicycling, and what better way to start an epic adventure of Italy’s greatest roads than with a visit to the church of Madonna di Ghisallo, the patron saint of cycling? The Giro d’Italia is often defined on the roads that wrap around the impressive peaks of the Dolomites, and each year, the route seems to produce yet another challenge. The Marmolada, at 10,965 feet, the highest peak in the Dolomites, dominates perhaps the most challenging and beautiful ring of roads for any cycling enthusiast, with six epic climbs encircling this beautiful mass of limestone.


Medieval legend says that Count Ghisallo was travelling near the village of Magréglio when he was attacked by highway bandits. Spotting a image of the Virgin Mary in a roadside shrine, he broke away from his attackers and ran to it. There he took refuge, pled for Our Lady's protection - and was miraculously saved from the robbers.

As the story spread, the Madonna del Ghisallo became known as patroness of local travellers. In more recent times, cyclists would often stop to rest and pray at the chapel, which is a local landmark, and is at the top of a steep hill. After World War II, Father Ermelindo Vigano, pastor at the shrine, proposed Ghisallo as the site of an Italian shrine for bicyclists, and she was given as patroness of cyclists on 13 October 1949 by Pope Pius XII. The chapel has become equal part religious shrine, part cycling museum, with artifacts and photos from the sport. There is an eternal flame that burns there in memory of the cyclists of are no longer with us, and services each Christmas Eve and the Feast of All Souls commemorate them.