The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Grace in Mellea is a remarkable example of Piedmontese Baroque and it preserves interesting artwork inside: the majestic and rich high altar, all in marble with two large onyx columns from Busca on either side, is built to a design by the famous architect Giovanni Valle; it also holds paintings by Taricco and Marengo. Its construction, run first by Cistercian monks and then by the Franciscans, is linked to a series of miracles and apparitions of the Virgin that have occurred since the 16th century. In 2009 the Franciscans abandoned the convent and today the Diocese has entrusted it to the “John XXIII” community, so the shrine continues its vocation as a welcoming place.
