Loreto

The pilgrimage city of Loreto has about 12,000 inhabitants and looks very authentic. This is partly due to the distinctive basilica and other historic buildings that can be seen from far outside the city.

The Basilica della Santa Casa is located on the central square and is one of the most visited sanctuaries in the world. According to tradition, the basilica is home to the house (Santa Casa) where the Virgin Mary was born. It would have been taken by ship from Nazareth to Loreto and rebuilt there. There are also believers who claim that angels have done this.

Next to the church you will find the seventeenth-century Sala del Tesoro (treasure room), which is also called “The Sistine Chapel of Le Marche”. Pilgrims from all over the world brought religious gifts to Loreto, which can be seen here.

That is immediately the reason that the Basilica della Santa Casa is surrounded by a military fortress. Because throughout the centuries the Holy House not only attracted pilgrims, but also thieves who wanted to rob the church treasures.

From the corridors of the fort, the so-called Camminamenti di Ronda, you have a beautiful view of Loreto and the surrounding area.