SANTUARIO DI OROPA | MUSEO DEI TESORI DI OROPA

It stands at an altitude of 1,200 m and is the most important Marian shrine in the Alps. The museum exhibits the gold, liturgical vestments and historical memories of the Sanctuary.In the first two rooms, together with archaeological finds dating back to the 2nd century B.C. found at Oropa, are collected some of the most precious historical and artistic testimonies of the Sanctuary: the altarpiece by the painter Bernardino Lanino (1522) depicting the Madonna Enthroned with Child and Four Saints, a votive gift from the city of Biella; the portraits of the first two miraculous victims of Oropa recognised by canonical process, dating back to the second half of the 17th century; some of the oldest votive paintings and documents from the historical archive, including the royal establishments; the drawings and plans of the architects who linked their names to Oropa, including Arduzzi, Gallo, Juvarra and Galletti.The third room displays some of the most prestigious items of the Sanctuary's liturgical wardrobe: along with the blue velvet chasuble that, according to tradition, was made from the mantle of Blessed Amedeo IX, Duke of Savoy (1435-1472), there are others in brocade and damask ranging from the 17th to the 19th century donated by Savoy sovereigns or noble families.In the fourth room, together with crowns, chalices, monstrances and votive hearts, there are the jewels that adorned the statue during the centenary coronations that took place starting in 1620: the two-tier tiara, the star halo, the pectoral, the love knot and the pendant made of gold, diamonds and precious stones.The links between the Sanctuary and the Royal House of Savoy are very old and it appears that a dignified flat was at its disposal as early as the 17th century; the current one, which can be visited by accessing the museum, dates back to the first half of the 18th century.