Discover the Sanctuary of Saint Anthony at Capo Milazzo, a unique cave church nestled in nature, blending history, art, and breathtaking sea views. It’s a place of peace and devotion in Sicily.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARCO CRUPI

Hidden among the natural wonders of the Capo Milazzo promontory, the Sanctuary of Saint Anthony of Padua is a one-of-a-kind site where spirituality, history, and stunning landscapes intertwine seamlessly. This small cave church, carved into the rock and overlooking the sea, is not just a monument of historical and artistic significance but also a spiritual beacon and a must-visit for anyone exploring this part of Sicily.

In January 1221, a young Portuguese friar named Fernando Martins de Bulhões, known today as Saint Anthony of Padua, was on a ship headed to Lisbon after a mission in Morocco. During the voyage, a fierce storm struck, forcing the vessel off course and causing it to wreck on the shores of Capo Milazzo. Saint Anthony found refuge in a cave on the promontory, spending several days there in prayer and meditation. This miraculous event left a lasting mark on the site, turning it into a pilgrimage destination for those drawn to the sacredness of the grotto.

In the 16th century, a hermit transformed the cave into a place of worship, placing an image of the saint inside and beginning to celebrate masses. The sanctuary was officially consecrated in 1575, thanks to the noble Guerrera family from Messina, who funded the construction of a larger and more decorated church. Over the centuries, the sanctuary underwent further modifications: in 1737, a new side altar was dedicated to Our Lady of Providence, and in 1783, the main altar was adorned with exquisite inlaid marble.

Today, the Sanctuary of Saint Anthony at Capo Milazzo stands as a place of profound spirituality and devotion, bearing witness to centuries of faith and tradition tied to the saint and his miraculous shipwreck.

The architecture of the sanctuary is particularly enchanting. Carved into the rock, the building blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings, creating an atmosphere of reflection and tranquility.

Inside the church, you’ll find several artistic elements of great value. Among these are marble medallions depicting the miracles of Saint Anthony and the main altar, crafted in 1783 from inlaid marble. Another artistic treasure is the replica of the painting depicting “Our Lady of Providence,” which replaces the original stolen in the 1990s.

The sanctuary has been a symbol of popular devotion for centuries. Every year on June 13th, the day of Saint Anthony’s passing, the faithful gather here to celebrate his feast day. This pilgrimage is a moment of deep spirituality and communion, attracting both the local community and visitors from other regions.

The traditions linked to the sanctuary go beyond religious celebrations: it is said that local fishermen often visit to seek the saint’s protection before venturing out to sea.

The Sanctuary of Capo Milazzo is also the starting point of the “Path of Saint Anthony“, a spiritual journey connecting this site to Padua via Polla, strengthening the ties between the communities devoted to Saint Anthony.

In November 2024, the towns of Milazzo and Polla signed a Friendship Pact in honor of Saint Anthony, promoting cultural and tourism initiatives to enhance their shared heritage.

The sanctuary is not only a spiritual place but also a natural gem. Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, it offers spectacular views encompassing Mount Trino, the bay below, the Nebrodi mountains, and the Sicilian coastline. This natural setting makes the site even more captivating for visitors.

The surrounding area is part of the Capo Milazzo Marine Protected Area, an ecologically significant site home to numerous protected marine species. This blend of spirituality and nature makes the sanctuary a truly unique experience.

The sanctuary is accessible via an external staircase that leads to the courtyard, where you can enjoy breathtaking views. For those planning to visit, it’s advisable to check the opening hours, especially during religious festivities. The site is easily reachable by car or public transport from Milazzo, making it a perfect stop for a day trip.