One of the most evocative places in Lake Maggiore is l 'Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, in the Province of Varese.
Set in the rock and overlooking the lake, the monastery was built around 1200 AD by a wealthy local merchant who escaped a storm and wanted to build this building as a sign of thanks and devotion by dedicating it to Saint Catherine of Egypt.
A convent and two small churches were built with valuable medieval frescoes and furnishings that make the interiors evocative and full of sacredness.
From the arrival terrace, from the arched portico under which you pass to reach the convent and from the small square a overhang on the lake, you can enjoy one of the most enchanting views in the area. From here it is possible to admire the Piedmontese side as well as the famous ones Borromean Islands.
The building is located at a difference in height of about 50 m from the town above and to reach it, until a few years ago, there was only a long panoramic staircase of 268 steps that descended to the Hermitage. But in recent years an efficient one has been realized lift carved into the rock, which, with the paltry expense of 50 cents each way, allows you to get off without effort and therefore makes this wonderful place of peace and tranquility accessible to anyone. The modern intervention is absolutely not visible and therefore has not altered the ancient structure in the least, which has remained a destination for pilgrimage and tourism.
The Hermitage can also be reached with the boats who provide navigation service on Lake Maggiore or with private boats and, arriving by water, is very scenic and allows you to admire the complex in all its splendor.
Given the beauty of the place, the easy accessibility and the absolutely low cost shopping, Santa Caterina del Sasso is one of the recommended destinations for those passing through the Province of Varese.
