SHARRYLAND
Shrine of Blessed Sante
Sacred and silent place within the wooded lap of rolling hills
Where is
What it is and where it is
A pinkish brick church with a bell tower, a portico of round arches and a churchyard sheltered from the sun by giant holm oaks. Perched on Scatoneto Hill, the ensemble of the monastery complex and church, originally a 13th-century Franciscan hermitage, is devoid of ostentatious solemnity; rather, it surprises with its welcoming atmosphere in every corner. It is accessed by climbing a majestic flight of steps or by parking your car at the back and driving up a short uphill road. All around, a grove envelops the shrine and invites one to listen to nature.
Why it is special
Perhaps it is the simplicity and absence of glittering distractions that give the Shrine its unique touch. The Church is simple in design: two naves with a presbytery provided with an altar dating from 1638 and an impressive crucifix of great artistic value, attributed to Ferrer Bassa (first half of the 14th century). The Chapel of the Blessed Saint, custodian of the relics of Giansante, is the heart of the shrine. Closing the visit are the cloister, the work of Girolamo Genga, the base of the 18th-century bell tower, still considered one of the best local examples of a bell tower, and the picture gallery.
Not to be missed
A walk in the woods, letting yourself be invited by one of several marked paths, is an excellent opportunity to become intimate with this place that exudes an ancient charm. In the semi-darkness, the variety of plants, including oaks, holm oaks, chestnut trees and hazels, mingle in the embrace of creepers. It is an old and mysterious forest in which the early friars wandered to build their church and, all around, their huts...
A bit of history
This hermitage experienced a turning point thanks to Giansante Brancorsini. The son of a wealthy family from Montefabbri, after killing one of his fellow villagers in a quarrel, he did penance, leaving behind his wealthy life and university studies and taking refuge in the convent of Santa Maria di Scatoneto to don the Franciscan habit. He always performed the most menial tasks and never wanted to become a priest and serve the Eucharist.
Trivia
For more than 30 years, the Feast of Trees and Local Typical Products has been celebrated in May: an event in the forest of the Sanctuary dedicated to nature and agri-food and artisanal products.
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