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A gallery of over 700 ex-votos representing near-death experiences can be found in this Tuscan cathedral.
The Sanctuary of Montenero is a religious complex maintained by Vallumbrosan monks. According to legend, in 1345 a shepherd discovered an image of the Virgin Mary and carried it up the “black mountain” (monte nero), which was known as a refuge for brigands. A small chapel was founded in honor of this miraculous image, and expanded over the centuries. While the church itself is beautiful and Baroque, with a gorgeous nave featuring the last intact carved wooden ceiling in Livorno, the real attraction is in the surrounding rooms and hallways. On the walls hangs Italy's largest collection of ex votos (votive offerings) giving thanks to the Madonna for saving her devotees from disaster.
