Loreto

Gracefully atop a hill overlooking the Marchesian landscape, Loreto stands as one of Italy’s most profoundly spiritual and historically rich destinations. This town, with its impressive Basilica della Santa Casa, draws pilgrims and visitors from across the globe for its deep religious significance and remarkable art and architecture.

Holy House

The heart of Loreto is undeniably the Basilica della Santa Casa, a magnificent complex that began construction in the 15th century and showcases a fascinating blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. What makes this Basilica truly extraordinary lies within its opulent walls: the Holy House. Legend holds that the house was miraculously transported by angels from Nazareth to Loreto in the late 13th century.

Beyond the spiritual core, the Basilica itself is an architectural marvel. Its grand dome, designed by Giuliano da Sangallo, is the third largest in Italy, surpassed only by St. Peter’s in Rome and Florence’s Duomo. Inside, intricate frescoes by master artists like Melozzo da Forlì and Luca Signorelli. Its Sala del Tesoro (Treasury Room), sometimes referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of Le Marche,” houses a breathtaking collection of art, jewels, and votive offerings donated by centuries of pilgrims.

Explore & experience

The Piazza della Madonna, the central square fronting the Basilica, is a grand and elegant space, flanked by the arcades of the 16th-century Palazzo Apostolico. For those interested in Loreto’s unique defensive history, the Camminamenti di Ronda (Patrol Paths) offer a fascinating glimpse into the Basilica’s past as a fortress. These elevated walkways, once used by guards to protect the sanctuary from pirate attacks, now provide spectacular panoramic views of the Basilica, the town, and the landscape that stretches from the Conero Riviera to the Apennine Mountains. The town’s historic center is a network of charming streets, lined with shops selling religious artifacts and local crafts.