The Sanctuary of Oropa is a place pervaded by a deep sense of religious faith which is still particularly alive, having taken root during six centuries of popular devotion: here come 800.000 pilgrims and more than 100 pilgrimages each year.
Its valuable artistic heritage includes the Royal Staircase, the old Basilica, the New Church and many works of art among wihich there is the well-known wooden statue of the Black Virgin.
Oropa is also an oasis of unpolluted nature and a paradise for tourists and sportsmen thanks not only to its many paths good for walking and trekking but also to its alpine refuges and its cablecar that gets to the charming Lake Mucrone and to the ski resort of the same name.

AN IMPORTANT RELIGIOUS PLACE
The statue of the Black Virgin is the very symbol of the Sanctuary: it is to her that the pilgrims flocking to Oropa every day address their prayers. Simple and majestic, it is kept in the Old Basilica, in "sacellum" decorated with beautiful 14th century frescoes. The second church was consacrated in 1960 after 2 centuries' work and plans: it has a dome more than 80 metres high, stands at about 1.200 m. above sea level and can hold 3.00 worshippers.

ART AND CULTURE
The cultural and artistic heritage of Oropa is unique and includes not only the 18th century Royal Gate designed by Juvarra and the Royal Apartments of the Savoia but also the Library full of old volumes, the collection of church ornaments and jewels and the two ex-voto galleries.

Oropa is worth to visit round year and do not forget to try the Biella`s regione most important food- 
polenta concia. 

You are very welcome! 

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