Madonna della Libera

Описание: "Madonna della Libera," or "Our Lady of Liberty," is a title for the Virgin Mary invoked by the faithful for deliverance from various afflictions, such as invasions, persecution, and epidemics. This title is particularly associated with several sanctuaries in Italy, such as in Benevento, where devotion began in 663 after she reportedly liberated the city from a siege. She is also a significant devotion for Saint Padre Pio, who had a strong devotion to her.
Origins and history
Benevento: Devotion began in 663 when the city was supposedly freed from a siege by Emperor Constans II.
Rodi Garganico: An ancient Byzantine icon was taken here in the 15th century and is a central image of devotion.
Moiano: The title "Della Libera" became associated with her after victory over the Turks in 1571, where her intercession was credited with freeing the populace from persecution.
Cercemaggiore: A 14th-century wooden statue of the Madonna was discovered, and the church was built on the site in 1412.
Key aspects of devotion
Deliverance: She is invoked for liberation from invasions, persecution, and epidemics.
Padre Pio: Saint Padre Pio had a deep personal devotion to her, referring to her as "La Madunnella nostra".
Iconography: Some images show her with a distinctive cross on her palm.
Worship: Her feast days are celebrated in various locations, such as the first Sunday of August in Pietrelcina.