Madonna delle Lacrime Sanctuary

This minor basilica and Marian sanctuary was constructed to commemorate a miraculous event in 1953 involving a plaster effigy that reportedly wept human tears. Designed by architects Michel Andrault and Pierre Parat, construction began in 1966 and was completed in 1994, the same year it was consecrated by Pope John Paul II. It serves as a significant pilgrimage destination and is the largest church of its kind in the region, with a capacity to accommodate 11,000 people.

The sanctuary is characterized by its brutalist architecture, featuring a striking conical concrete structure that reaches a height of 103 meters and dominates the skyline. Often compared to an inverted cone, the modern design stands in stark contrast to traditional religious buildings. The complex includes a crypt believed to be a paleo-Christian mausoleum and is situated adjacent to ancient catacombs.

The sanctuary is open to the public and hosts various religious celebrations throughout the year, notably the anniversary of the Weeping of Mary from August 29th to September 1st. These events include specialized Mass schedules and services presided over by bishops and archbishops. As a functioning parish church, it remains a central site for Roman Catholic worship and pilgrimage.