In a picturesque Italian town, a statue of the Virgin Mary intrigued countless individuals with its inexplicable tears. However, recent inquiries revealed a disturbing reality. Share Article Share Article Facebook X LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Copy Link Link copied Bookmark Comments
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For almost a decade, voyagers from around the world journeyed to a small Italian community to witness what numerous people considered a wonder – a figure of the Virgin Mary exuding sanguine tears. But now, the enigma has taken a significant turn, with scientific evaluations pointing towards a decidedly less heavenly elucidation.
Since 2016, the representation recognised as the Madonna di Trevignano has appealed to thousands of devotees. Its caretaker, Gisella Cardia, asserted the statue not only wept bloody tears but also conveyed communications and visions to her.
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On the third day of each month, attendees would congregate on a mountainside sanctuary where the figurine sat sheltered in azure glass, heeding prophecies and, on occasion, partaking in what were depicted as wondrous banquets.
Cardia even maintained the Madonna once amplified portions of pizza, gnocchi and rabbit to nourish over a dozen individuals – an assertion that only intensified the fervour of adherents.
The statue itself possessed modest origins. Cardia procured it during a religious journey to Medjugorje in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a locale celebrated for accounts of supernatural appearances.
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However, shortly afterwards, she affirmed, the portrayal commenced to display paranormal indicators – most notably, flows of blood-resembling fluid flowing from its eyes. To numerous devout followers, this signified unmistakable divine involvement.
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Inquiries concerning genuineness were perpetual. Certain locals insinuated that swine’s blood was employed to fabricate the phenomena, while others blamed Cardia for exploiting belief for selfish enrichment.
Stress peaked two years prior, when inhabitants employed a clandestine examiner to delve into her declarations. That investigation ultimately induced prosecutors and the Italian military police to step in.
In February of 2025, the matter attained a crucial juncture. As per Italian daily Corriere della Sera, DNA scrutiny of the crimson liquid has exposed a surprising correspondence – not with creatures, but with Cardia herself. The account implies the fluid was her personal blood, throwing renewed skepticism on years of alleged prodigies.
Chief investigator Achille Cohen-Tavor termed it “a revolution in differentiating conviction from deceit,” although he evaded declaring the situation resolved. For legal representatives, the results offer vital verification in continuing procedures, which have already witnessed Cardia indicted for swindle after receiving contributions she professed would finance a facility for unwell youngsters.
The Vatican, in the meantime, had previously disassociated itself. In an uncommon pronouncement last year, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith reviewed findings from the local Diocese of Civita Castellana and resolved there was nothing preternatural concerning the Madonna di Trevignano.
The declaration promoted composure amidst the believers, emphasising that authentic dedication should not be connected to uncorroborated occurrences.
Yet Cardia’s defence team stands unwavering. Her legal representative, Solange Marchignoli, insists the DNA examination does not essentially disprove her client’s testimony.
“The blemish warrants further scrutiny,” she stated. “Should the profile be singular, it would signify only Cardia’s blood is available, which could propose manufacturing. But should the profile be mixed, it prompts alternative eventualities. Who can ascertain what the Madonna’s DNA might be?”
She contended that regular manipulation, kissing and devotions at the statue could have readily deposited traces of Cardia’s blood.
The instance has engrossed Italy, where accounts claim Cardia has absconded from her dwelling in Trevignano and disappeared from societal view, and even her legal representative states she has forfeited contact.
The Catholic Church has extensively struggled with alleged apparitions and miraculous claims. Some, such as those at Lourdes or Fatima, have been officially recognized. Many more, nonetheless, have been dismissed subsequent to neglecting to endure assessment.