Custodian of works and devotion
The Museum of Art and Faith, located within the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Custonaci, offers a journey through sacred art and devotional tradition. The museum was established in 2005 thanks to the dedication and commitment of the Committee for the Festivities in Honour of the Madonna of Custonaci, now an official association. The museum is managed by both the committee and the priests of the Sanctuary, who oversee its promotion and enhancement.
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The museum is divided into several sections, each dedicated to a specific aspect of Marian devotion, presenting a rich collection of artworks, ex-votos, paintings, sculptures, and sacred and liturgical objects.
The first section is devoted to artistic representations of the Virgin Mary, with particular attention to the iconography of the Madonna of Custonaci. Here, visitors can admire numerous paintings of varying craftsmanship, including a faithful copy of the original artwork, created on an antique wooden door that was discovered by chance in the 1960s. The panel painting, dated 1541, is attributed to the workshop of Crescenzio.
In the same space, there is also an exquisite 16th-century wooden bas-relief depicting the Madonna enthroned with the Infant, a piece of remarkable artistic and historical significance.
A second section of the museum is dedicated to temporary exhibitions on themes related to the Sanctuary and Marian devotion. Among the permanent exhibits, a recently restored, distinguished 18th-century clock stands out as a fascinating historical artefact.
In the third room, numerous ex-votos and paintings bear witness to popular faith. One of the most intriguing objects is the “Macchinetta”, crafted in 1907 by Sicilian migrants in America who were devoted to the Madonna of Custonaci.
At the heart of the room stands the majestic “Vara della Madonna”, a fine wooden processional platform created in 1831 by artists Carlo Peraino and Giuseppe Loretta. The rectangular frame is adorned with gilded decorations and features five angels: four at the corners and one in the centre, holding a crown. The “Vara” was traditionally used to transport the original painting of the Madonna during solemn processions between Custonaci and Mount Erice. An old custom associated with this tradition involved placing sick or suffering children atop the structure in the hope of receiving grace or miraculous healing.
Through an inspiring journey of art, history, and devotion, the museum serves as a precious testimony to the religious and cultural heritage of Custonaci, a place where faith intertwines with artistic beauty and community spirit.
Where it is located
Other nearby places
Sanctuary of Maria Santissima of Custonaci
Discover the effigy of the Virgin and the works of the Baroque age
Stella Maris Statue
In the waters of the Mount Cofano Nature Reserve
Cerriolo Park (Statue of Regina Pacis)
The green area of Custonaci adorned with flora and works of art
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