Loreto

Religion and Italy go hand in hand, as evidenced by the sheer profusion of beautiful churches and cathedrals all over the country. Le Marche is no exception either and the region is dotted with massive basilicas and tiny hilltop churches. In the town of Loreto in Ancona region stands a popular Catholic pilgrimage site – the Basilica della Santa Casa. The massive, gleaming white basilica dates back to the 16th century and is built in late Gothic style. The 18th-century campanile or bell tower, which stands next to the basilica, is richly decorated. Inside the basilica there are colourful mosaics and works of art by some of the master painters of the 16th century. The main attraction, which makes the basilica a pilgrimage centre, is the Santa Casa or Holy House inside the basilica. This is a plain stone building that is said to be the house in Nazareth in which the Virgin Mary was born, brought up and received the Annunciation (when the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she will become the mother of Jesus). Today there is historical and archaeological evidence that supports this, and the walls seem to have arrived in Loreto in 1294. More than 4 million pilgrims arrive here every year. Whether you’re Catholic or not, the basilica is a must-visit for its sheer beauty and historical significance.