The Church of Maria Ausiliatrice in Siusi: A Baroque Jewel among the Mountains
A short distance from the Sciliar massif, surrounded by the tranquility of the Dolomite landscape, stands the Church of Maria Ausiliatrice, one of the most cherished and symbolic sacred places in Siusi allo Sciliar. Founded in 1648, as inscribed on the door’s architrave, this small church tells a long story of popular faith, pilgrimages, and a deep bond with the local community.
In 1657, shortly after the church’s inauguration, Siusi gained independence from the municipality of Castelrotto, further strengthening its religious identity. At that time, alongside the new Marian church, there were two private chapels in Castelvecchio and Castel Salego. The village could finally count on its own centre for prayer and spirituality.
Architecture between Gothic and Early Baroque
The church is built in a sober and harmonious style that reflects the early Baroque period while preserving Gothic influences. This is evident in its slender bell tower, adorned with paired round-arched windows and topped with a pointed spire. Four striking gargoyles shaped like animal heads decorate the corners, recalling the aesthetics of medieval architecture.
Around the church, visitors can still admire the 14 Stations of the Cross, remarkably well preserved. Once, votive niches surrounded the perimeter, though today only eleven remain, a testament to the passage of time and to the simple, heartfelt devotion of the faithful.
The Interior: An Altar that Enchants
If the exterior invites reflection, the interior captivates with its beauty. Upon entering, one is struck by the contrast between the simplicity of the pews and the splendour of the majestic high altar made of marbled wood. At its centre, two angels support a delicate gilded frame enclosing the image of Mary with the Child. Above it, the Dove of the Holy Spirit and God the Father holding the globe evoke the Trinity, while below the painting stand two reliefs depicting the Hearts of Jesus and Mary.
On either side of the altar are two exceptionally fine wooden statues: Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the Evangelist, masterpieces that reflect the high quality of local sacred craftsmanship.
A Living Church, Even Today
Expertly restored at the end of the 20th century, the church was enriched in 1993 with a Formentelli organ, renowned for its tonal and aesthetic excellence. The church is still attended by worshippers today, especially during the Marian services in May, the month traditionally dedicated to the Virgin.
Due to its intimate size, baptisms are celebrated only occasionally, yet it remains a deeply cherished place within the community. The church keys are kept by the owner of the Hotel Genziana, who also carries out the ancient and poetic task of tolling the bell for the dead whenever a soul from the village departs this world—towards the sky above the peaks of the Sciliar.
A Place of Silence and Prayer
The Church of Maria Ausiliatrice is not merely a religious building, but a place of memory, beauty, and spirituality. Whether you are a believer or simply an admirer of art and tradition, visiting it will offer you an intimate and genuine experience. A small treasure set among the Dolomites, where every detail tells a story of faith, devotion, and grace.