The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is a basilica set on a forested hill southwest of Bologna’s historical center. Colle Della Guardia is about (1,000 feet) 300 meters above the city plain and provides fantastic views of the region. See the basilica itself, an amazing feat of architecture that is beautiful both inside and out.
The basilica was constructed in the 18th century replacing an earlier church that existed for several centuries and held the legendary byzantine portrait of the Madonna di San Luca. Each year residents carry the portrait in a parade from the basilica to a city cathedral to be worshipped. To protect the painting on its annual journey, the basilica’s impressive portico was built. Walk the immense portico, which is 2.4 miles (3.8 kilometers) long and made up of 666 arches.
At the top of the hill, the first things to notice are the church’s imposing structure and its grand stairways and arches. Step inside to see a bright and colorful interior, intricately decorated, typical of Italy’s great churches. The grand columns painted in a sunny yellow show off the church’s beauty.
Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the basilica for spectacular panoramic views or wander around the outside columns and the top of the hill to be rewarded with equally incredible vistas. To the northeast is the city on the north and west are the rolling hills of Emilia-Romagna.
Reach the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca by walking the enjoyable but sometimes steep 2.4-mile (1.5-kilometer) path starting from the Meloncello Arch crossing Saragozza. Alternatives include driving and parking near the top, catching the bus or riding on the little red tourist train leaving from Piazza Maggiore. The church is open almost every day. On weekdays it closes during lunchtime. Entrance is free, but you must pay to climb to the top tower views.
Don’t miss the opportunity to walk through the world’s longest portico. With a gift like the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca at the end of your journey, you’ll be glad you made the effort.