The better tenets of Cycling, team work, endurance, sacrifice and pushing through pain have suggested that,despite its doping, that there is a spiritual side to the sport. A bike ride connects you to the climate, geology and physics of an area. If you met anyone on your journey then culture too
The Ghisella Sanctuary and adjoining Museum offer all of that and more. It is best accessed from Bellagio, Lake Como and whether you arrive by car or bike, you have traveled through spectacular countryside around Lake Como that dares you not to stop every five minutes gaze at one spectacular view after another. The chapel is simple and moving The idea of a patron saint appealed to professional cyclists and they have filled it with jerseys, bikes and medals as homage to a pretty common belief that there is something outside ourselves that is important. So much so that a wonderful modern museum has been built with all the spillover For cyclists, it is a must. A pilgrimage! For hard core there is the challenge of the traditional way. Do it in reverse and it’s less steep. Electric bike level it for everyone If you are a spouse or friend the views and drive are worth it
Bike shops such as Bike it Bellagio can outfit you. If you aren’t staying Bellagio then the Ferries can carry you (the ferries are great but be sure you understand their idiosyncrasies about when and where you can...
Read moreIl Museo del Ciclismo Madonna del Ghisallo è un luogo straordinario che cattura l’essenza e la storia affascinante del ciclismo. Situato sulle rive del Lago di Como, questo museo celebra la passione per la bicicletta in un contesto unico.
La storia di questo museo è intrinsecamente legata alla Madonna del Ghisallo, la patrona dei ciclisti. La leggenda narra che nel Medioevo, un cavaliere in difficoltà invocò l’aiuto della Madonna mentre affrontava un percorso montuoso. La leggenda si diffuse, e nel 1949, papa Pio XII dichiarò ufficialmente la Madonna del Ghisallo patrona dei ciclisti.
Il museo ospita una vasta collezione di biciclette storiche, cimeli ciclistici e trofei, offrendo ai visitatori un viaggio nel tempo attraverso le epoche d’oro del ciclismo. Si possono ammirare le biciclette di campioni leggendari come Fausto Coppi e Gino Bartali, immergendosi nelle epiche sfide del Giro d’Italia.
Inoltre, il museo è situato vicino alla Cappella della Madonna del Ghisallo, dove i ciclisti spesso si recano per chiedere protezione e ringraziare la Madonna per la sicurezza durante le loro corse. Questa connessione spirituale aggiunge un elemento unico all’esperienza museale.
Complessivamente, il Museo del Ciclismo Madonna del Ghisallo non è solo una raccolta di oggetti, ma un luogo che respira l’anima del ciclismo italiano. La sua storia intricata, unita alla magnificenza delle biciclette esposte, lo rende un must per gli appassionati di ciclismo e coloro che apprezzano la fusione di storia, cultura e sport.
The Museo del Ciclismo Madonna del Ghisallo is an extraordinary place that captures the essence and fascinating history of cycling. Located on the shores of Lake Como, this museum celebrates the passion for cycling in a unique setting.
The history of this museum is intricately tied to the Madonna del Ghisallo, the patroness of cyclists. Legend has it that in the Middle Ages, a struggling knight invoked the Madonna’s help while tackling a challenging mountainous route. The legend spread, and in 1949, Pope Pius XII officially declared Madonna del Ghisallo the patroness of cyclists.
The museum houses an extensive collection of historical bicycles, cycling memorabilia, and trophies, offering visitors a journey through the golden ages of cycling. One can admire bicycles ridden by legendary champions such as Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali, immersing themselves in the epic challenges of the Giro d’Italia.
Moreover, the museum is located near the Chapel of Madonna del Ghisallo, where cyclists often visit to seek protection and express gratitude to the Madonna for safety during their races. This spiritual connection adds a unique element to the museum experience.
Overall, the Museo del Ciclismo Madonna del Ghisallo is not just a collection of artifacts but a place that breathes the soul of Italian cycling. Its intricate history, coupled with the magnificence of the displayed bicycles, makes it a must-visit for cycling enthusiasts and those who appreciate the blend of history,...
Read moreSo glad we visited here. Most special church we ever visited. A symbolic and spiritual place for cyclist. In 1949, Pope Pius XII declared Madonna del Ghisallo the patroness of cyclists. Cyclists from around the world make pilgrimages to the chapel to seek protection and blessings. The steep climb to the chapel is a popular challenge among cycling enthusiasts. The chapel houses an extensive collection of cycling memorabilia, including bikes, jerseys, and photos donated by professional cyclists. Some notable items include the bikes of cycling legends such as Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali. Various cycling events and races often pass by or finish at the Madonna del Ghisallo, including the Giro di Lombardia, a major...
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