Church of San Martino
Situated at 475 metres above sea level, the Church of San Martino occupies a stunning position on a panoramic terrace with breathtaking views over Lake Como.
Reachable via a pleasant walk-through woods and meadows, this small votive church is dedicated to the saint known for sharing his cloak with a poor man. Also known as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Grace, it is open by request on weekends from May to October, and on 1ˢᵗ May and 11ᵗʰ November (Saint Martin’s day) for Mass.
Between history and legendAccording to historians, the church already existed by the late sixteenth century, originally known as San Martino al Monte. By the mid-seventeenth century it had taken the name Sanctuary of Our Lady of Grace on Mount San Martino, due to a local legend. It is said that in the seventeenth century a shepherd girl searching for water discovered a wooden statue of the Madonna inside a cave. The finely crafted statue, probably dating from the late fifteenth century, was taken to the village church, but mysteriously disappeared — only to be found again on the rock of San Martino. Interpreting this as a miracle, the locals decided to place the statue in the small church, where it remains to this day. |
A panoramic walkThe walk from Griante to the Church of San Martino takes less than an hour and is mostly uphill. The effort is richly rewarded with spectacular views and a deep sense of peace and contemplation. From the village, the route is well signposted. Along the way you will pass several chapels decorated with mosaics. After the initial stretch through the woods, the path continues along a long, scenic mid-slope section. For those wishing to stop for a break or picnic, beside the church there are tables and benches offering a delightful view of the lake. |
