Santa Caterina del Sasso

Lake Maggiore is a large lake located on the south side of the Alps. Lake Maggiore is well-known for its stunning villas and amazing botanical gardens. Picturesquely located on a sheer cliff above water, the Hermitage was founded in the 12th century by the merchant Alberto Besozzi of Arolo, who on being shipwrecked took refuge in a cave and vowed devotion to St Catherine. In 1195 he built a tiny, isolated church in recognition of his deliverance. The present building date from the late 13th - early 14th centuries.