Colle del Ghisallo

Situated near Lake Como, in the hamlet of Magreglio, the hill derives its name from a legend involving a Marian apparition, which has woven itself into local lore and global cycling culture.

The story dates back to medieval times when Count Ghisallo, while travelling through the region, was beset by bandits. In a desperate attempt to escape, he ran towards a shrine bearing an image of the Virgin Mary.

According to the legend, the apparition of the Virgin protected him, leading to his safe escape. This event led to the area being named La Madonna del Ghisallo, with the Virgin Mary becoming the patroness of local travellers.

Over time, this small hilltop shrine transformed into a site of pilgrimage, not only for the devout but also for cyclists from around the world.

The Cyclists’ Patroness

In the mid-20th century, the Madonna del Ghisallo gained new significance within the cycling community. The church, perched at the summit of a steep climb from Lake Como, became a popular stop for cyclists tackling the challenging ascent.

Madonna del Ghisallo Church

Recognising the connection between the site and the sport, Father Ermelindo Vigano, a local priest, advocated for the Madonna del Ghisallo to be declared the patroness of cyclists. This request was granted by Pope Pius XII in 1949, solidifying the shrine’s status as a spiritual haven for cycling enthusiasts.

A Shrine and a Museum

Today, the Madonna del Ghisallo church serves as both a religious site and a museum. The shrine houses a collection of cycling memorabilia, including photos, jerseys, and bicycles donated by famous cyclists.

One of the most poignant exhibits is the crumpled bicycle of Fabio Casartelli, a professional cyclist from the region who tragically died during the 1995 Tour de France.

An eternal flame burns in the church, honouring cyclists who have lost their lives.

The Fondazione Museo del Ciclismo-Madonna del Ghisallo, established in 2000, further cemented the site’s role in preserving cycling history.

One of the foundation’s first significant events was a torch relay from the chapel to the Vatican, where the torch was presented to Pope John Paul II.

This gesture symbolised the global reach of the cycling community and its shared reverence for the Madonna del Ghisallo.

In 2010, the nearby Museo del Ciclismo was inaugurated, providing a dedicated space for the extensive collection of cycling artefacts and memorabilia.

The museum not only celebrates the sport’s history but also educates visitors about its cultural impact, making it a must-visit for cycling fans and history buffs alike.

The Colle del Ghisallo Climb

The hill itself, known as the Colle del Ghisallo, is a notable challenge for cyclists, featuring prominently in the Giro di Lombardia and frequently in the Giro d’Italia.

The climb begins at the shores of Lake Como and rises to a maximum elevation of 754 metres above sea level. It spans a length of 10.6 kilometres, with an average gradient of 5.2% and a maximum gradient of 11%, making it a rigorous test of endurance and skill.

The ascent has become a rite of passage for many cyclists, who view reaching the top as both a physical achievement and a spiritual journey.

The Madonna del Ghisallo stands as a unique intersection of faith, history, and sport.

From its origins as a site of local legend to its current status as a global cycling landmark, the hill and its church offer a rich tapestry of stories and symbols.

For the devout, it is a place of prayer and reflection; for cyclists, it is a shrine of achievement and remembrance.

Whether drawn by religious devotion or the love of cycling, visitors to Madonna del Ghisallo find a place steeped in tradition and dedicated to the enduring human spirit.