Sirmione Commemorates Benedetta Bianchi Porro and Inaugurates Meridiana Hotel

Today, in Sirmione, the anniversary of Benedetta Bianchi Porro‘s birth is celebrated, the young woman from Sirmione for whom the process of beatification is currently underway.

Benedetta was born on August 8, 1936, in a small town near Forlì, which she later moved to with her family in Sirmione in 1951. A long series of illnesses then weakened her physically, leading to her death on January 23, 1964, in her home next to Villa Callas, which later became the Meridiana Hotel.

Inauguration of the Meridiana Hotel

The Meridiana Hotel, now completely renovated, will be inaugurated and blessed today. The family, with great sensitivity, chose to keep it private, including the room where Benedetta lived and passed away.

It will be managed by Caterina Gorlani, niece of the future saint from Sirmione, and her husband Cristian. However, today’s event will also include other religious moments.

Religious moments and inaugurations

At 6 p.m., a solemn ceremony will take place at the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Neve, presided over by the archbishop of Loreto, Mons. Angelo Comastri, with the presence of Mons. Evelino Dal Bon, parish priest of Sirmione.

At the end of the service, the high prelate will bless the wooden statue depicting a Madonna that has just been restored. The artwork, dating back to the 15th century, will finally be able to return to its place.

It has been announced that the presence of Maurizio Banzola, president of Api di Brescia, Adelio Zanelli, president of the Community of Garda, and numerous other civic and religious authorities will be present.