The chapel of the Madonna di Vitaleta is possibly the most photographed chapel in Italy.
It sits on a hilltop beside the village of Vitaleta, between San Quirico and Pienza in Tuscany.
It was restored in 1184 by architect Giuseppe Partini and used to be the home of a statue of the Madonna sculpted by Andrea della Robbia in 1590.
The statue is now in a church in San Quirico and a festival is held each year to celebrate it.
It can be a bit difficult to find, but we did this time we were in the area. Here is my photo to add to the many others. There are some truly gorgeous photos of this tiny chapel. If you happen to be there at the right time for good lighting, or a pretty season, the photos can be magnificent. This one is a bit ordinary, but all I have.
Try to find the Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta on your travels, you won’t be disappointed. You can walk to it I believe, but the view from a distance is probably better.
It is a pity that the statue had to be moved for it’s own protection. It is a beautiful work by Della Robbia and, unfortunately, it would attract art thieves. There have been numerous thefts in Italy and all over Europe. I was told some time ago that some valuable antique ornaments were “removed” from San Pietrasanta in Corsena, the main church in Bagni di Lucca. This is the reason why nowadays most churches are closed unless there is Mass or some type of cult or ceremony. A pity!
By: Mulino Dominillo on April 10, 2018
at 6:34 am
It is really a shame that these things happen. At least we can enjoy this lovely little building.
By: Debra Kolkka on April 10, 2018
at 11:48 am
Will try to find the chapel when i travel to Italy. Hope that will be in June.
By: topsuccesscom on April 10, 2018
at 6:42 am
It is on the right going towards Pienza from San Quirico, not far from the town.
By: Debra Kolkka on April 10, 2018
at 11:49 am
Got it
By: topsuccesscom on April 11, 2018
at 5:46 am
For an “ordinary” photo, it’s quite beautiful
By: Anonymous on April 10, 2018
at 8:45 am
I have seen some stunning photos of the chapel.
By: Debra Kolkka on April 10, 2018
at 11:50 am
Awesome shot Debra
By: Elizabeth Litzow on April 10, 2018
at 9:08 am
Grazie!
By: Debra Kolkka on April 10, 2018
at 11:50 am
Nice shot Debra. Hope to see the chapel in healthy conditions.
By: ojurereoluwa on April 10, 2018
at 9:48 am
It looks lovely on its Hill.
By: Debra Kolkka on April 10, 2018
at 11:50 am
It is a great iconic photo Deb! Glad you found the little chapel to show us.
By: Kerry & Jim on April 10, 2018
at 10:35 am
We have missed it a couple of times while driving in the area. We were delighted to find it this time.
By: Debra Kolkka on April 10, 2018
at 11:51 am
Just sitting out there by itself?
By: aFrankAngle on April 10, 2018
at 11:25 am
There is a larger building not far away.
By: Debra Kolkka on April 10, 2018
at 11:51 am
Oh it’s lovely! Thank you for sharing this 😀
By: Lorraine @Not Quite Nigella on April 10, 2018
at 2:16 pm
It is easy to see why it is photographed so often.
By: Debra Kolkka on April 10, 2018
at 4:36 pm
I think this was the image that tempted me to make annual trips to Italy, and to slow down!
By: Yvonne on April 10, 2018
at 4:52 pm
I can understand that.
By: Debra Kolkka on April 10, 2018
at 8:10 pm
A very beautiful place. I hope I can visit it and take pictures by myself..
By: agusfanani187 on April 14, 2018
at 3:15 am