Re, Piedmont (comune)

Geography and administration

The municipality covers an area of about 27 square kilometres and lies roughly 20 kilometres from Domodossola and some 7 kilometres from the border with Switzerland. The terrain is predominantly alpine, with forested slopes, pastureland, and small clustered settlements. Local administration is typical of Italian comuni: a mayor and municipal council oversee services for a population that has varied over time, recorded at roughly 800 inhabitants in the early 2000s.

History and the sanctuary

Re's identity has been strongly shaped by a long-standing local devotion centered on the Santuario della Madonna del Sangue, a shrine that attracts pilgrims from the valley and beyond. Local tradition associates the sanctuary with a miraculous event involving a painted image of the Virgin; this devotion was reinforced over several centuries and led to the sanctuary's enlargement and formal recognition as a pilgrimage destination. The church and its devotional practices remain focal points of communal life.

Economy and cultural life

The local economy combines small-scale agriculture, artisanal activities and services linked to pilgrimage and mountain tourism. Visitors come for religious observance, scenic walks, and to experience traditions of the Val Vigezzo area — a valley noted for its artistic heritage and cross-border cultural ties. Seasonal events and religious celebrations punctuate the year and sustain local hospitality services.

Access and neighbouring municipalities

Re is accessible by regional roads from Domodossola and other valley towns; Domodossola serves as the nearest regional transport hub for longer-distance rail and road links. Neighbouring municipalities include:

• Craveggia
• Cursolo-Orasso
• Malesco
• Villette

Visitors often combine a visit to the sanctuary with walks into the surrounding mountains or excursions across the nearby Swiss border. For further municipal information see the local administrative pages and regional guides.