The Sanctuary of San Luca, located on Colle della Guardia, has been the symbol of Bologna as well as a place of religious worship for centuries. It is connected to the city centre by a road that, starting from Porta Saragozza, unwinds for four kilometres with a portico that boasts over 600 archways and is the longest in the world. Together with the other city porticoes, it was included in UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2021.
The portico started being built in 1674 and, during Ascension week, a procession has been walking along it carrying the Byzantine Madonna with Child to the Cathedral since 1433. The Sanctuary church was, however, built later in the 18th century to replace a previous 15th-century construction.
The sanctuary offers marvellous views over the surrounding landscape. In addition, the panoramic terrace opened in 2017 at a height of 42 metres above Colle della Guardia (300 m asl), enables visitors to admire a unique 180° view of Bolognafrom the hills to the centre stretching out as far as Casalecchio di Reno.
Map
Sanctuary of San Luca
Via di San Luca 36
40135 Bologna
Telephone: +39 051 6142339
Email: info@santuariodisanluca.it
Site/minisite/other: https://www.santuariodisanluca.it/eng/
Entrance
Free
Interests
- Art & Culture
Details
Accessibility
The Basilica is accessible by elevator to all types of disabilities. Only the dome and crypt are not accessible. Reservations are required for access for groups only.
Services
San Luca Sky Experience
Free for Bologna Welcome Card PLUS holders.
For more information about opening hours and rates click here. The
access to panoramic terrace is available until 15 minutes prior the
closing time. For private guided groups is necessary to reserve by email.
For visits and events prenotazioni@santuariodisanluca.it
Timetables
| Monday | 7:00am-7:00pm |
| Tuesday | 7:00am-7:00pm |
| Wednesday | 7:00am-7:00pm |
| Thursday | 7:00am-7:00pm |
| Friday | 7:00am-7:00pm |
| Saturday | 7:00am-7:00pm |
| Sunday and holidays | 7:00am-7:00pm |
From March to October the Sanctuary will close 30min later. Opening times can be subjected to little changes.
During the religious services, the tourist visit could be limited or suspended. For further information please call here.
San Luca Sky Experience: opening time click here.
