Sotto il Monte, a small town of humble peasant origins, gained worldwide fame when Cardinal Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, born here in 1881, was elected Pope, reigning from 1958 to 1963 under the name John XXIII. This event profoundly transformed the town, making it a place of pilgrimage and historical and cultural interest.
The Birthplace of John XXIII: A Place of Remembrance
Today, Sotto il Monte offers visitors a unique experience, combining spirituality, history, and scenic beauty. The heart of the town is represented by the birthplace of John XXIII, a modest house that preserves the charm of the past. Here you can immerse yourself in the daily life of the future Pope, admiring personal objects, photographs, and documents that trace his history.
Next to the birthplace, the Museum dedicated to John XXIII offers a further opportunity to deepen the knowledge of his life and his pontificate. The museum collects testimonies, documents, and objects that illustrate his commitment to peace, social justice, and interreligious dialogue.
Fontanella Abbey: Art and Faith on Monte Canto
A short distance from the town, on the slopes of Monte Canto, stands the Abbey of Fontanella, a Romanesque complex dating back to the 11th century. This place of worship, surrounded by greenery and tranquility, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding plain. The abbey, with its sober and elegant architecture, represents a significant example of Lombard Romanesque art.
From the Abbey of Fontanella, an ancient mule track winds through the hill, connecting Sotto il Monte with the adjacent Valle San Martino and another famous abbey, that of Pontida. This path offers hikers the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, discovering hidden corners and picturesque views.
The Lombard League in Pontida: A Key Historical Event
The Abbey of Pontida, a Benedictine monastery dating back to the 11th century, is a place of great historical importance. On April 7, 1167, the representatives of the cities of the Lombard League met here and, with a solemn oath, pledged to defend their freedom against Emperor Frederick Barbarossa. This event marked a turning point in the history of Northern Italy, contributing to the birth of the municipalities and the struggle for autonomy.
Sotto il Monte, with its history, its spirituality and its scenic beauty, is an ideal destination for those who wish to spend a day dedicated to culture, faith and relaxation. A place where the past and the present merge, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.