Sanctuary Basilica Shrine of the Holy Crucifix Boca, Mouth, Italy

The origins of the Sanctuary of the Holy Crucifix in Boca are rooted in a tragic event that deeply moved the local community. According to tradition, the sanctuary’s foundation dates back to the 17th century, following the violent death of a married couple from the area. In response to this incident, the locals erected a small wall adorned with a fresco of the crucified Christ. This humble tribute soon became a place of prayer and devotion, eventually evolving into a small chapel.

Growth Through Miraculous Events

The chapel’s significance grew markedly in the second half of the 18th century, spurred by reports of miraculous healings associated with the site. The first of these miracles was recorded in 1763. As the number of healings increased, so did the flow of pilgrims, and in turn, the need for a larger place of worship. This growing popularity led to an expansion of the original chapel, and a rich collection of ex-votos—offerings and testimonies of gratitude—began to accumulate, many of which are still preserved within the sanctuary today.

Expansion and the Vision of Antonelli

By the early 19th century, the existing structure could no longer accommodate the rising number of devotees. In 1819, a significant expansion project was launched. Initially, the design was entrusted to Giovanni Agnelli, an engineer from Novara. Agnelli’s plans included the ambitious diversion of the Strona River, a feat accomplished largely through the voluntary efforts of local residents. Soon after, a pivotal figure in the sanctuary’s history emerged: Alessandro Antonelli, a young and promising architect from Ghemme, only 22 years old at the time. Antonelli—who would later gain fame as the designer of Turin’s iconic Mole Antonelliana—completely reimagined the sanctuary. He proposed a majestic structure in the neoclassical style, characterized by grandeur and harmony.

However, the construction process was anything but smooth. It was plagued by technical challenges, financial limitations, and even moments of tension with the local population. These difficulties slowed progress considerably. Nevertheless, after resolving various disputes, construction resumed, and the project endured even beyond Antonelli’s death in 1888. His son, Costanzo Antonelli, took over the direction of the works. By the end of the 19th century, the main structure of the sanctuary had been completed, though not entirely according to Antonelli’s original vision.

Collapse, Restoration, and Modern Recognition

On August 30, 1907, disaster struck. A violent storm caused a significant collapse that severely damaged the left side of the sanctuary. Restoration work began but was long and drawn out, particularly hampered by the onset of the World Wars. In 1942, the sanctuary sustained minor damage during an air raid, but this time, the harm was not extensive. Structural completion was gradually achieved over the decades, culminating in the early 1970s with the construction of the sanctuary’s monumental front staircase. In 1987, the sanctuary and its surrounding area were officially incorporated into the Monte Fenera Natural Park, securing its place within a protected natural and cultural landscape. A major milestone in the sanctuary’s modern history came on January 3, 2012, when the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments elevated it to the rank of minor basilica. This honor was solemnly proclaimed on September 16, 2012, by Franco Giulio Brambilla, the Bishop of Novara, affirming the sanctuary’s enduring spiritual and historical importance.