A historic sanctuary in the hamlet of Fontona, reached by a short walk and linked to the religious memory of Levanto's hills.
Why visit it
It is worth visiting if you want to go beyond Levanto's centre and discover hamlets, wooded paths and smaller devotional places.
Description
The Sanctuary of Madonna del Soccorso is located around Fontona, on the hills above Levanto. Cultural records identify it as an eighteenth-century church, while local sources connect it with the older religious history of the hamlet and with devotion to the Madonna del Soccorso. It is a quiet place, closer to the landscape of trails than to the urban tourism of the seafront.
History and context
Local tradition links the sanctuary to Fontona's ancient religious building. Sources report that the old chapel, after restoration between the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, was raised to the status of sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna del Soccorso. The local feast is remembered in early July, with pilgrimages from Fontona's parish church.
How to get there
It can be reached from the hamlet of Fontona; local sources describe a walk of about twenty minutes from the parish church.
Accessibility and practical notes
Access is on foot, along paths or secondary roads. Accessibility should be checked on site, especially after rain or on uneven ground.
Local tips
Visit slowly, preferably together with Fontona and the paths towards Mesco. Bring water and check trail conditions.
Curiosity
The wooden statue of Madonna del Soccorso has been the subject of local restoration and promotion.
Opening and practical information
Place of worship and local devotion: opening times may vary. Check updated information before visiting.
Costs and access
No verified information on tickets or access fees.
What to see nearby
Nearby: Fontona, the Church of San Michele Arcangelo, trails towards Mesco and Monte Negro.
Sources and verification
Fonti consultate: catalogo.beniculturali.it/detail/ArchitecturalOrLandscapeHeritage/0700112823; visitlevanto.it/blog/levanto-e-le-sue-frazioni/; cittadellaspezia.com/2010/06/29/levanto-in-festa-per-la-madonna-del-soccorso-64028/