Sacro Monte di San Carlo


When Milan's superstar bishop San Carlo Borromeo (1538–84) was declared a saint in 1610, his cousin Federico ordered the creation of a sacro monte in his memory. A church and three chapels were built, along with a special extra: a gigantic hollow 35m bronze-and-copper statue of the saint completed in 1698, commonly known as the Sancarlone (Big St Charles). You can climb up inside it to discover spectacular views through the giant's eyes (and even nostrils).

It’s a bit of a vertiginous ascent up a long ladder-like staircase (vertigo sufferers should give it a miss) and children under six years old are not allowed up. There's a small garden surrounding the statue, with panels explaining key episodes of Borromeo's life. Entry to the church is free.

To reach this hill, with nice views over the south end of Lake Maggiore and across to the Rocca di Angera, walk or drive about 2km northwest from Piazza del Popolo.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Rocca di Angera

1.42 MILES

The chunky medieval Rocca di Angera fortress lords it over the town of Angera in no uncertain terms. From a distance, it is the first thing one sees…

2. Oasi della Bruschera

2.12 MILES

One of the last remaining wooded wetlands in Lombardy, this 400-hectare site has several trails including a lakeside path with fine views across the reed…

3. Museo dell’Ombrello e del Parasole

6.49 MILES

Those driving to Mottarone or Orta San Giulio (for Lake Orta) from Stresa could stop in Gignese (8km from Stresa) for the intriguing Museo dell’Ombrello e…

4. Sacro Monte di San Francesco

6.67 MILES

Beyond the lush gardens and residences that mark the hill rising behind Orta is a kind of parallel ‘town’ – the sacro monte, where 20 small chapels…

5. Chiesa dell'Assunta

6.81 MILES

A short walk uphill from the Piazza Mario Motta on the waterfront, this church dates back to the 15th century, though it was rebuilt in the 1700s. It has…

6. Piazza Mario Motta

6.87 MILES

Here's a picture of how life really should be lived: rise early and head for a coffee on Piazza Mario Motta, gazing across at the sun-struck Isola San…

7. Orta San Giulio

6.87 MILES

Overlooking the forest-lined banks of the shimmering Lake Orta, this shore-hugging village has abundant allure. It occupies a kidney-shaped peninsula with…

8. Isola San Giulio

7.12 MILES

Anchored barely 500m in front of Piazza Mario Motta is Isola San Giulio. The island is dominated by the 12th-century Basilica di San Giulio, full of…