The sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Montenero in Riomaggiore, in the province of La Spezia, can only be reached by crossing vineyards and Mediterranean scrub along a mule track called "La Via Grande", on which thirteen votive aedicules dedicated to the Madonna are arranged. The church, one of the sanctuaries of the Cinque Terre, is located on a promontory that rises 340 meters above sea level, with an unforgettable view from the island of Tino to Punta Mesco.
The first documented information dates back to the 14th century, but popular tradition has it that the sanctuary was built by the inhabitants of Riomaggiore after an apparition of the Virgin Mary to the young Maria del Paladino in the year 790.
The church has been renovated several times. Its current appearance dates back to the mid-19th century. Inside, an image of the Madonna from the 16th century is venerated, which took the place of a lost Byzantine icon.
On the Saturday before Pentecost the sanctuary is reached by a procession. On this occasion (and until the following Monday) "Gli ori di Montenero", a precious collection of ex-votos, are exhibited.
