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Margana

The Sanctuary of Margana is a sacred site dedicated to the Madonna of Margana, the patroness of the island, located in the namesake hamlet. The current structure, built on a pre-existing sanctuary dating back to the 1700s, retains the typical characteristics of rural churches. It features a single nave, a barrel vault, and a gable roof. Over the years, it has undergone several modifications, including changes to the main facade and the churchyard.

The painting of the Madonna housed within the sanctuary is of inestimable value. According to legend, this painting, dating back to 1857 and probably of Byzantine origin, arrived from the East on a merchant ship. During a storm, the ship was forced to jettison its cargo, including the painting, which was thrown into the sea. Fortunately, it was found on one of the western beaches of the island by Pantescan fishermen, who decided to deliver it to the village priest. When an attempt was made to transport the image on the back of a donkey, the animal suddenly stopped in the Margana area, refusing to go any further. This behavior was interpreted as a divine sign, prompting religious authorities and the local community to erect a sanctuary at the spot where the Madonna's painting was discovered. This place was then named "Madonna della Margana," referring to the surrounding fields and meadows.