The Shrine of Pompeii

The Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of the Holy Rosary, in "modern" Pompeii (the present-day town that is home to the excavation site) is an international place of pilgrimage. It is considered the most important Shrine consecrated to Mary in Italy. 4 millions of pilgrims from all over the world visit the Shrine every year.

The Shrine is a place of particular significance in Campania, where the faithful walk 20 miles overnight to complete their pilgrimage to the Basilica, to show their devotion to the Holy Mary and often to thank her for favours received. The ex-votos that cover the walls of the church are an impressive testimonial of the miracles granted by the Madonna since the church was consecrated in 1891, on May 8th. The ex-votos are small devotional images created as an offering in fulfillment of a vow. Each ex-voto tells a personal story, about the person who miraculously survived a disaster or illness through the divine intervention of Mary.