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Church · Bolonha, Emília-Romanha
Santuario della Madonna di San Luca
Baroque sanctuary atop the Colle della Guardia, connected to the city by a portico of 3,796 metres and roughly 660 arches—the longest in the world.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Santuario della Madonna di San Luca
The sanctuary sits on the Colle della Guardia, about 280 metres above sea level, southwest of the centre. It houses an icon of the Virgin and Child that tradition attributes to the evangelist Luke, venerated in Bologna since the Middle Ages. The current building, with an elliptical plan and a dome, was designed by Carlo Francesco Dotti in the 18th century.
The walk up is the main reason many visitors come. The Portico of San Luca is 3,796 metres long and has between 658 and 666 arches, depending on how you count. It begins at the Arco Bonaccorsi near Porta Saragozza, runs flat for about 1.5 km to the Arco del Meloncello (1732), and then ascends the hill in ramps and steps for more than 2 km.
Along the climb there are 15 chapels with the mysteries of the Rosary, roughly one every twenty arches. The portico is part of the group of Bologna’s porticoes recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every year, during the week of the Ascension, the icon is carried in procession down to the city's cathedral.
Up on the hill, the terrace by the sanctuary looks out over the plain and the Apennines. Inside, the church has altars with paintings by Donato Creti, and the dome was decorated in the early 20th century.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Walking up the portico takes about 45 minutes to 1h15 from Porta Saragozza. Allow 30 minutes at the sanctuary.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are lower and the light over the plain is often good. In summer, avoid midday. The sanctuary’s opening times vary with services; check before you go.
How to get there
On foot, start at Porta Saragozza, about 20 minutes from Piazza Maggiore. By bus, local lines go to Meloncello and others climb near the sanctuary; there is also a tourist train that departs from the centre. There is parking at the top if you go by car.
Tip
Wear trainers: the final section has continuous steps. Bring water in summer. If you don't want to climb, you can take the bus or tourist train up and walk down the portico, which is less tiring.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Santuario della Madonna di San Luca
How long does the walk up take?
From 45 minutes to just over 1 hour from the Porta Saragozza, depending on your pace. The final stretch, after the Arco del Meloncello, is a constant uphill.
Can you get there without walking?
Yes. There is a city bus that goes up the hill and a tourist train that departs from the centre. It's also possible to go up by car or taxi.
Are the porticoes of Bolonha a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes, a selection of stretches of the city's porticoes, including that of San Luca, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Is there an entrance fee for the sanctuary?
Entrance to the church is free. Respect services and wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.