As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, northern Italy is set to shine on the international stage, attracting attention not only for its sporting events but also for its rich Catholic heritage. The Games will unfold in the Lombardy and Veneto regions, with key events held in bustling Milan and the stunning mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled 160 miles apart.
For those with a faith-based pilgrimage in mind, northern Italy represents a unique blend of dramatic landscapes and notable religious significance. Pilgrims are encouraged to immerse themselves in a journey lasting at least a week, allowing ample time for prayer and reflection amidst the region’s breathtaking natural beauty, encompassing the picturesque lakes of Como, Maggiore, and Garda.
Milan, the capital of Lombardy, contrasts its reputation as a fashion and finance hub with its deep ecclesiastical roots. Home to the impressive Duomo di Milano, the city boasts the largest church in Italy, larger even than St. Peter’s Basilica. The gothic cathedral, with its 135 spires and stunning stained-glass windows, is a testament to centuries of dedication to the Catholic faith and is dedicated to the Nativity of the Blessed Mother.
Beneath this grand structure lies a treasure trove of archaeological history, including the site where St. Ambrose famously baptized St. Augustine. Pilgrims should also visit the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio, where St. Ambrose is buried, and the Basilica of San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro in Pavia, where St. Augustine rests.
Milan’s cultural offerings extend beyond its religious sites; art lovers can admire Leonardo da Vinci’s renowned mural, The Last Supper, housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Nearby, in the charming town of Magenta, visitors can pay homage to Saint Gianna Beretta Molla at the Basilica di San Martino, where she celebrated her marriage in 1955. The basilica exudes warmth and nostalgia, offering a glimpse into the lives of this beloved saint and her family.
A short journey southwest brings you to Turin, the burial site of several saints, including St. Pier Giorgio Frassati and St. John Bosco. The city’s cathedral, which holds the Holy Shroud of Turin, serves as a significant pilgrimage destination, despite the shroud itself being currently unavailable for viewing. Visitors can explore the related museum that details the history and significance of this revered artifact.
Finally, Cortina d’Ampezzo, crowned the “Queen of the Dolomites,” invites adventurers with its spectacular mountain vistas and numerous churches, including the Basilica of St. Phillip and St. James, patrons of the town.
As the world focuses on the Olympics, the connection to numerous Catholic saints within these locations provides a chance for spiritual reflection. As Pope Leo has emphasized, the Games may serve as a platform for fostering peace and dialogue across nations. With prayerful intentions, many will look to the intercession of these saints for a successful and harmonious Olympic experience.