Nestled in the scenic Trigno Valley, the Sanctuary of Santa Maria di Canneto is one of the most ancient and revered religious sites in the Molise region. Located in the town of Roccavivara, the sanctuary stands on the remnants of a Roman villa and agricultural estate, evidence of a long-standing human presence.
Christianity arrived here in the 6th century, brought by the bishops of Trivento. After the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD proclaimed Mary as the Mother of God, it is believed that the first shrine dedicated to her was erected on this site. The current church, dating back to the 11th–12th century, was built by Benedictine monks from San Vincenzo al Volturno and later Montecassino, who also founded a now-lost monastery. The sanctuary is first mentioned in a document from 703 AD, known as the “Chronicon Volturnense.”
Over the centuries, the site fell into disrepair, especially after the Benedictines left in 1474. By the early 20th century, the church was nearly buried in debris brought by the river. It was only in 1930 that Father Duilio Lemme, with the help of the local community, began a passionate restoration. The sanctuary reopened in 1935 and has since seen further enhancements supervised by the Molise Cultural Heritage Authority and the Diocese of Trivento. Notable additions include a triptych, a wooden choir, new furnishings, and symbolic elements such as the “Tent of Forgiveness” and the modern Stations of the Cross.
Today, the sanctuary is lovingly cared for by the Sisters of the Franciscan Charity and the priests of the Institute of the Incarnate Word. It welcomes thousands of pilgrims, particularly between May and October, with peaks during Easter, the Feast of the Assumption, and on September 8th. The Virgin of the Smile, depicted inside, offers solace and spiritual renewal to all who visit.