The miraculous Holy Crucifix of Valsecca

Valsecca today is a fraction of Sant'Omobono Terme, but until 2014 it was a separate municipality. It has only a few inhabitants, about 3 or 400, but it is a place full of greenery, nature and spirituality. Despite its name, it is very rich in water. The reason why it is also better known throughout the Vallemagna is the presence of an ancient crucifix that is defined as miraculous. According to the tradition handed down from father to son, this sacred effigy arrived in Valsecca around 1750, brought back from Lake Maggiore by a certain Bartolo Belli. Placed in a small church, over time it worked many wonders, protecting the inhabitants of the place from the plague and cholera. At one time it was carried in procession only in exceptional cases. Since the 1960s, on the other hand, a feast has been dedicated to the Holy Crucifix every 5 years, when it is moved from its original location to the church of San Marco Evangelista. The celebrations take place in the last week of July, to allow even those who have emigrated to return. There are religious events, such as the procession, but also playful, such as fireworks.