Beniamino Simoni's Via Crucis in Cerveno

Nearly two hundred sculptures across fourteen stations: Beniamino Simoni’s Via Crucis in the Valle Camonica is a breathtaking combination of faith and art. These life-sized wooden statues offer a unique immersion into the steps of Christ’s journey to Golgotha.

The sanctuary housing them is located in Cerveno. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this one-of-a-kind Via Crucis.

In the heart of the Valle Camonica, Cerveno’s Via Crucis Sanctuary showcases a stunning representation of Christ’s Passion created by sculptor Beniamino Simoni. This sacred site, featuring the traditional 14 stations, was built in the late 18th century at the community's request for a place of worship dedicated to Christ’s Passion. Construction began in 1752 and continued until 1764, with Simoni creating the stations as the sanctuary's focal point.

Simoni, a sculptor from Niardo, crafted a devotional path featuring life-sized wooden scenes depicting key moments of Christ’s journey to Golgotha. These sculptures, imbued with dramatic realism, have made the sanctuary a landmark of sacred art in Lombardy.

The 14 stations of Cerveno’s Via Crucis form a spiritual journey through Christ’s Passion. Each station features sculptural groups illustrating key episodes, from the arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane to the burial.

Simoni’s sculptures are notable for their expressive realism. The limewood figures are vividly painted, enhancing the details of expressions and gestures. Known for his skill in woodworking, Simoni infused his figures with life and movement. The subsequent polychromy adds depth and vibrancy to the sculptures, making each scene deeply evocative.

These artworks not only adorn the sanctuary but narrate stories of faith and sacrifice, fulfilling the age-old purpose of religious sculptures and images, which were invaluable in conveying Scripture.

For these reasons, the Via Crucis Sanctuary in Cerveno is a significant site for worship and meditation. Every year, especially during Holy Week, numerous faithful visit to walk the stations in prayer and reflect on Christ's Passion. This path offers a unique opportunity to experience intense and reflective spirituality, following Christ's steps and contemplating the sacrifices and suffering he endured.

Over the years, the sanctuary has undergone various restoration projects to preserve the beauty and integrity of its sculptures. Thanks to the efforts of the local community and experts, the 14 stations have been maintained in excellent condition. Restoration work has addressed both the wooden structure of the sculptures and their polychromy, focusing on preserving their original details. These efforts ensure that the Via Crucis remains an important artistic and spiritual landmark for future generations.