Sacred wonders and sustainable experiences – 5 European Marian shrines everyone must see

Seville is a pioneer of sustainable tourism in Spain: the city has been awarded the title of European Capital of Smart Tourism, manages visitor flows with advanced data-driven systems, and actively promotes eco-friendly transport – through the development of tram networks, public bike-sharing schemes, and green parks. Additionally, it regularly hosts international sustainable tourism conferences, reinforcing its role in Europe's green transition.

The story and miracles of the Virgin Mary statue:
The statue of “La Virgen de la Esperanza Macarena” – Our Lady of Hope – was created in the 17th century, though its exact maker is disputed, with Juan de Mesa being the most frequently mentioned name. The statue is remarkable for its life-size depiction and extraordinary emotional expression of the Sorrowful Virgin. Glass tears glisten on her face, but according to legend, the tears have appeared on their own multiple times – revered by the faithful as the miracle of the weeping Virgin.

Many stories are associated with the statue:

• During the Spanish Civil War, the city's residents believed that through the Virgin's intercession, Seville was spared from greater destruction.

• According to several accounts, prayers offered before the statue led to unexpected healings, reconciliations, or solutions to hopeless situations.

• Locals especially turned to the Macarena during difficult times – pandemics, economic crises – referring to her as “Seville’s Sweet Mother.”

The statue's adornments are also unique: the Virgin wears a golden crown and a richly embroidered mantle, often crafted from donations and gifts of gratitude from the faithful.

Csíksomlyó is not only the heart of religious tourism but also an integral part of the cultural and community life of Miercurea Ciuc. During the Pentecost pilgrimage, hundreds of thousands of visitors come here, but the region offers a rich array of tourist attractions year-round: hiking, local gastronomy – such as the authentic flavours of Székely cuisine – and traditional events await visitors. Miercurea Ciuc increasingly focuses on sustainability by improving public transport and promoting local products to minimise tourism’s ecological footprint. Thus, alongside religious and cultural experiences, the city and its surroundings are also appealing to responsible travellers.

The history of the shrine:
The Franciscan monastery and pilgrimage church of Csíksomlyó were built in the 15th century and were already an important pilgrimage site at the time: local believers regularly made pilgrimages here in honour of the Virgin Mary, the Helper. The site gained special significance in 1567 when John Sigismund, Prince of Transylvania, sought to promote conversion to Protestantism and sent troops to suppress the Catholic Székelys. However, the Székelys gathered in the hills of Csíksomlyó, sought the Virgin Mary’s protection, and defeated the prince’s army. Believers attributed the victory to Mary’s intercession and vowed to return to the shrine every Pentecost in gratitude. This became the origin of the Csíksomlyó pilgrimage, which remains the largest Hungarian-language pilgrimage in the Carpathian Basin.

The story of the Virgin Mary statue:
The late Gothic “Virgin Mary, the Helper of Csíksomlyó” statue in the church was created in the early 16th century. Over two metres tall, it is one of Europe’s largest devotional statues. Believers consider it miraculous: the statue is associated with healings, answered prayers, and the historical survival of the Székely community.

Located in the Maros Valley, Máriaradna is one of Transylvania’s most important Marian shrines, attracting pilgrims and cultural visitors for centuries. The Baroque pilgrimage church and Franciscan monastery are not only sacred centres but also architectural treasures. Visitors can enjoy religious experiences while exploring the natural beauty and local gastronomy of the Maros region. Recent renovations have incorporated energy-efficient solutions and local community collaborations to strengthen sustainable tourism, preserving the heritage of the past while embracing a responsible approach for the future.

The history of the shrine:
Since the 17th century, local Catholics have come to Máriaradna to pray, and the Franciscans soon established a monastery here. In the 18th century, with the support of Maria Theresa, a grand Baroque church was built, becoming one of the most important religious centres in the Banat region. Over the years, the shrine faced threats from wars, but the faithful always rebuilt it.

The story of the Marian image:
The origins of the pilgrimages are linked to a 17th-century Marian image that miraculously survived a Turkish attack. According to tradition, the church was set on fire, but the sacred image remained intact amidst the flames. This miracle initiated the Marian devotion at Máriaradna, and for centuries, believers have sought comfort, healing, and intercession before the image.

Croatia’s national shrine, home to the famous Black Madonna statue and its surrounding basilica, has been at the heart of Croatian Catholic identity for centuries. Alongside religious experiences, the picturesque Zagorje landscape, local wines and gastronomy, and traditional crafts make the town an attractive destination. 

The history of the shrine:
Since the 16th century, Marija Bistrica has played a central role in Croatian Catholicism. During the Ottoman occupation, the town became a symbol of faith and identity preservation. In the 19th–20th centuries, the shrine gained national significance, with numerous Croatian bishops and even Pope John Paul II visiting it.

The story of the Madonna statue:
The famous Black Madonna statue was created in the 15th century. During the Ottoman threat, the parish priest hid it to save it from destruction, but according to tradition, the statue miraculously reappeared several times. This “returning” miracle made the sanctuary one of the holiest places for the Croatian people. Over the centuries, the statue has been associated with numerous answered prayers and healings, and today it is surrounded by votive plaques and gifts from the faithful.

Historical background:
In 1923, Pope Pius XI declared Marija Bistrica a national shrine, recognising its national importance. In 1984, Pope John Paul II visited the shrine, reaffirming the cult of the Madonna statue, which remains a central element of Croatia’s spiritual life.

Szentkút is Hungary’s national shrine and part of the Novohrad–Nógrád UNESCO Global Geopark. The area’s unique geological heritage – karst springs, rock formations, nature trails – hosts numerous geotourism programmes, making the region attractive not only for spiritual experiences but also for nature lovers and eco-tourists. The shrine’s pilgrim restaurant offers GEOfood-certified dishes made from local ingredients, combining religious and culinary experiences with sustainable tourism.

What legends surround the pilgrimage site? 

Several legends explain the origin of the spring at Szentkút:

• The shepherd boy’s vision: According to tradition, in the 12th century, the Virgin Mary appeared to a shepherd boy, and a spring emerged where her foot touched the ground. The water has since been linked to numerous healings and miracles, giving the shrine its name.

• The Saint Ladislaus legend: Another tradition tells of King Saint Ladislaus, who, during a battle with the Cumans, became thirsty while fleeing through the Mátra forest. Striking a rock with his sword, he caused a spring to gush forth. This spring became the centre of the pilgrimage, believed to have healing powers ever since.