LORETO private tour: the holy house of Virgin Mary

Loreto Guided Tour: Discover the Sanctuary and Historic Town

The guided tour of Loreto introduces visitors to this beautiful town in the province of Ancona, celebrated for its Sanctuary and a wealth of hidden historical and architectural treasures. The visit begins at Porta Marina, one of the main entrances to the church-fortress. In ancient times, pilgrims ascended the Holy Stairs of 330 steps to purify themselves before reaching the Sanctuary. Today, the staircase has been restored and remains fully visible, together with the Torrione Piccolo, one of the two bastions that once enclosed the historic center of Loreto with its fortified walls.

Square of the Virgin Mary

We then arrive at the Square of the Virgin Mary, where the atmosphere is enhanced by talented street artists known as “madonnari,” who create intricate religious-themed artworks on the pavement. The square itself is surrounded by remarkable landmarks that reflect the town’s rich heritage. The Baroque-style Fontana Maggiore from the seventeenth century draws attention with its four bronze dragons sculpted by the Jacometti brothers, while the Illyrian Palace and the bronze statue of Pope Sixtus V offer further examples of Loreto’s historical and artistic significance. From the patrol walkways atop the fortress, visitors can appreciate the strategic position of the Sanctuary, historically defended against raids from the Adriatic Sea. The nearby Apostolic Palace, which houses the Pontifical Museum of the Holy House, showcases architectural brilliance spanning centuries, beginning with Bramante’s initial 1500s project and completed two hundred years later by Vanvitelli, designer of the Royal Palace of Caserta.

The Sanctuary of the Virgin Mary

The centerpiece of Loreto is undoubtedly the Sanctuary of the Virgin Mary, a stunning church-fortress in Gothic-Renaissance style featuring magnificent bronze doors and a bell tower designed by Vanvitelli. Inside, the Sanctuary holds one of the most important treasures of Catholic spirituality: the Holy House of Nazareth, considered the birthplace of the Virgin Mary and the site of the Annunciation. The stone walls, originally from Palestine, are encased in a monumental marble construction by Bramante, adorned with sixteenth-century bas-reliefs of extraordinary value. The combination of architectural grandeur and spiritual significance makes the Sanctuary a remarkable experience for all visitors.

Porta Romana and Torrione Grande

The tour concludes at Porta Romana, another historic gateway to the town, where two statues of prophets greet visitors. Nearby, the Sangallo Bastion, also known as Torrione Grande, rises impressively, featuring the Fountain of the Gauls with its bronze dragon perched at the top and four roosters at the base. The view of the fortified town from this vantage point provides a lasting impression of Loreto’s history, art, and enduring spiritual importance, completing a rich and immersive guided experience.

Included:

• Walking tour with licensed tour guide

Not included:

• Food and drinks
• Museum tickets (optional)
• Transfer service

What to bring:

• Comfortable shoes
• Water
• Sun hat on hot days

Meeting point:

• Piazza della Madonna square (next the fountaine)