Santuario della Madonna Nera

At the high point of Tindari stands the defining church with its gleaming golden dome that can be seen from miles around. The Santuario del Tindari is also called the Santuario della Madonna Nera, or the black Madonna. That's because an antique wood statue of Mary is the centerpiece of the church and of pilgrimages from all over. It is said that the statue was miraculously rescued from sea in the 800s, found by local fishermen in a box that was bobbing on the waves. When they opened the box they found the Madonna Nera, which quickly became a piece of veneration and one that was said to be a bearer of miracles.

There was once an acropolis on the site, part of the city of Tyndaris, founded by Greek refugees from Sparta in the wake of the Peloppensian War. A fortress was later constructed on the lofty location. The church was suppressed during Arab rule but reborn under the Normans. The reputation grew and the church expanded, adding a monastery and lodgings for pilgrims. By the modern era, though, the sanctuary couldn't hold the number of visitors, and the new massive church was constructed. While the rather mannerist santuario nuovo may feel devoid of spirit, it does have some pretty marbles and mosaics. Under the altar is an impressive sculpture of the Last Supper, while above it is a faithful copy of the church's namesake statue, La Madonna Nera.

What you really want to see if the Santuario Antico, which is behind the modern church. This is where you'll find the original Madonna Nera, held in an ornately adorned niche. The hours are more limited for visits, but well worth scheduling to see it.

Mass is held three times a day on weekdays, and 8 times on Sundays in the Santuario Nuovo. There is a Via Crucis held every Friday following the 4:00 PM Mass.

HOURS SANTUARIO ANTICO: 11:00 AM til 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM til 4:00 PM daily; from 2:30 PM til 4:00 PM on Sundays and holidays.

HOURS SANTUARIO NUOVO: from 6:45 AM til 12:45 PM and from 2:30 PM til 6:00 PM.