Many Franciscan churches around Rimini are dedicated to the Madonna and the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Graces (Beata Vergine delle Grazie) is one such, in fact the most illustrious in the diocese and province of Rimini. Its origins are surrounded by myths and legends: in 1286, to while away the time, a shepherd sculpted a Madonna in the trunk of a tree but without managing to complete the face; this, instead, was terminated by angels. The miraculously finished statue somehow found its way to the sea and was taken to Venice where it is now worshipped in the church of San Marziale. A chapel was built where the miracle took place on Colle di Covignano which was later expanded to become a church in the 16th Century. Both the Sanctuary and the neighbouring Convent delle Grazie were seriously damaged during World War II. The high altar inside the sanctuary was painted by Ottaviano Nelli in the 15th Century though was long attributed to Giotto. There is a splendid crucifix in the right hand Nave produced by the Grotesque school.
- Type:
Religious
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