Uncover the Cultural and Artistic Significance of Rome’s Hidden Virgin Mary Shrines With a New Tour Uniquely Blending History and Fitness
ArcheoRunning invites travelers to uncover a lesser-known side of Rome with its newest offering: The “Madonnelle” of Rome sightseeing tour. Tiny shrines featuring depictions of the Madonna, the Madonnelle are nestled on street corners and ancient walls. These unassuming treasures reveal a fascinating cultural narrative, rooted in centuries of Roman devotion and tradition. Designed for all fitness levels, this experiential 5k tour is available as a 75-minute running experience or a two-hour power walking journey.
Guided by Isabella Calidonna, ArcheoRunning’s founder who also counts art historian and certified running coach on her resume, participants will explore the artistry and history behind the 500 surviving Madonnelle depictions. Once numbering in the thousands, these shrines were cherished by locals who ensured their upkeep, lighting them with candles long before modern electricity lit Rome’s streets. These treasures reflect Rome’s centuries-old devotion to the Virgin Mary, evolving from ancient pagan traditions where deities known as Lares Compitales were believed to protect street intersections, into a cherished Christian practice symbolizing faith and community. The tour combines fitness, culture, and sustainability, providing a unique way to experience the Eternal City while learning the fascinating history of these hidden gems, as well as the streets and monuments along the way. The tour starts first thing in the morning from Piazza Navona or the Spanish Steps, with the meeting point tailored to the group’s preference. Whether running or power walking, the early morning schedules ensure a serene experience before the city comes to life with even more travelers visiting Rome due to the Jubilee in 2025.
Tours are priced at €110 (approx. $112) for solo runners or €140 (approx. $134) for solo power walkers. Groups of two can participate at €80 (approx. $82) per person, with rates dropping to €70 (approx. $71) per person for three participants and €50 per person for groups of four or more. For more information or to book your spot, please visit www.archeorunning.com.
Established in 2016, ArcheoRunning offers private running and walking tours in Rome. Founded by renaissance (wo)man Isabella Calidonna, an art historian, certified tour guide and coach for Fidal (Italian Athletics Federation) and Coni (Italian National Olympic Committee), ArcheoRunning combines all her passions to showcase the Eternal City in a new light. Participants rediscover historic sites as well as learn about new hidden gems on custom tours that range from 2 to 4 hours. Created for individuals or groups of all ages, tours range up to a 5k (approximately 2.5 miles) with stops made along the way for historical stories and information. Current offerings range from runs through Villa Borghese, Villa Pamphilj and Trastevere to down the Roman Bridges, ancient aqueducts, and Appian Way.
