<p>The Sanctuary of Montecastello is located just below the peak of Monte Cas, on a spur of rock sheer above the lake, with magnificent panoramic views. Its privileged position offers to the visitors unique and spectacular views: moving from the high peaks of Mount Baldo to the peninsula of Sirmione, the sight can take in all the landscapes that embrace the blue waters. Recently restored, it is one of the most popular and well-known sacred places of Garda given its architectural, artistic and scenic beauty. Built on the ruins of an ancient temple, later transformed into a castle, it houses the "Casa Santa", a small temple presumably dating back to 800 AD. In the rich and frescoed interior (frescoes of the Giottesca school), one of the many preserved is presumably the largest European ex-voto, dating back to the early 1600s. The Sanctuary of Montecastello (Sanctuary of the Madonna della Stella) owes its name to the miraculous appearance of a "Star" that ended a ferocious battle that took place in Tignale in 1200. For centuries it has been a place of pilgrimage and devotion, particularly to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is portrayed in an antique and miraculous fresco behind the main altar. The Sanctuary of Montecastello can be reached on foot (in half an hour with a fairly vertical climb) by parking the car on the road between Olzano and Prabione (from the western Garda state road you have to go up the signs for Tignale) next to the first capital of the Via Crucis (574 m). In the less crowded seasons it is also possible to get in the car, taking into account that the last stretch of the road is steep, with sharp hairpin bends and a narrow face under which to pass (therefore not very comfortable for very large vehicles). Once you have reached the Sanctuary, you can safely park in the square.</p>
