A mountain theatre through art and faith: how to im-prove fruition of Sacro Monte in Varese?

The case of Sacro Monte in Varese is here presented, which became a World Heritage Site in 2003, together with other Sacred Mountains in a confined area between the regions of Piedmont and Lombardy, built between the 15th and 18th centuries. The Sacred Mounts are a splendid example of integrating architecture into the surrounding landscape, particularly on a mountainside. The case of Varese is particularly evocative, built according to a single plan in full Baroque style, with its 14 chapels, all different. Like many other places of pilgrimage, it is very inclusive and increasingly addressed to pilgrims different from those of the Catholic faith, to whom it was originally targeted. Though well-preserved, managed and enhanced by the authorities in charge, this place continues to present critical issues that require special attention. An educational experience with international students, belonging to different religious faiths, provided an understanding of to-day's value of this world cultural heritage, confirming the importance of raising awareness of the issue of protect-ing this heritage