Longest Portico in the World

On Saturday we walked the Portico di San Luca up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. Constructed between 1674 and 1793, it totals 3.8 kilometers (about 2.36 miles), and holds the record for the longest Portico in the world. It has 666 arches, interspersed by 15 small chapels (which look like gated enclaves containing frescos - see below). The walk includes 471 stairs and ascends 300 meters above the city.

The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca holds a rich history dating back to its origins in the 12th century. Located on Colle della Guardia, a hill overlooking Bologna, Italy, the sanctuary is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and houses the revered icon of the Madonna and Child.

Legend has it that the icon was brought to Bologna in 1160 by a Greek pilgrim named Euthymius, who claimed it was painted by the Evangelist Luke. Initially, a small chapel was built to house the icon. However, as its reputation for miracles and spiritual significance grew, it became a major pilgrimage site, prompting the construction of a more substantial church.

The current basilica, designed by Carlo Francesco Dotti, was completed in 1765. Its baroque architecture features a prominent dome, which is visible from afar and serves as a striking landmark. The interior is adorned with exquisite artwork, including frescoes and sculptures that depict various religious scenes.

From our apartment, it was about 5.5 miles round trip and Vannah was exhausted… but not exhausted enough to allow us to leave her alone for the evening. We are still working on that.