You cannot spend your vacation on the Marche coast and not visit Loreto, which provides an atmosphere conducive to reflection, relaxation and allowing you to commune with art in peace.
Around four million tourists and pilgrims come here every year, but at the same time you can visit it without rushing, enjoying the sun, beautiful views and architecture dating back to the Middle Ages. Picturesque landscapes, narrow streets and charming squares create an ideal space for walks and relaxation, and the proximity of the sea allows you to enjoy the charms of the seaside climate and beautiful views.
In the past, the authorities of the Papal State tried to make this place a showcase of the region. Today, Loreto is kept as much as possible in resemblance to the place from centuries ago. There are no restaurant tables, colorful modern signs or facades on the main city square.
The local basilica was built in the 15th century, while the Holy House inside it dates back to antiquity. It is the Santa Casa that is the main point of the Sanctuary in Loreto and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Italy.
The Santa Casa is a stone building, its external walls are marble bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the life of Mary and images of prophets. Inside there is a sculpture of the Madonna of Loreto.
Its history is shrouded in legend, which gives it a mystical character. According to tradition, this house was the birthplace of the Mother of God and her life in Nazareth, as well as the place of the Annunciation, where the Archangel Gabriel announced to her that she would be the mother of Jesus.
Legend has it that in the 13th century, amid the threat of Muslim invasions of the Holy Land, on December 10, 1294, the house was miraculously transported by angels from Nazareth to Loreto in Italy. Modern historical and archaeological research suggests a more mundane version of events. It is believed that the house was moved by the de Angelis (Angels) family, who transported stones from the Holy Land to Loreto to protect and preserve the sanctity of the site.
Regardless of how the house came to be in Loreto, it has become one of the most important Marian sites in the world, a place of deep spirituality and cultural heritage.
In memory of the miraculous transfer of the house, the feast of Our Lady of Loreto is celebrated in Loreto on December 10 each year. During this time, the city comes alive with processions, masses, and other liturgical events.
Santa Casa is a unique relic that is a symbol of faith, hope and protection and continues to inspire and fascinate believers and researchers.
The house has also played a significant role in the development of European culture and art. It has inspired many works of art, music and literature, and has contributed to the development of religious architecture, influencing the construction of numerous chapels and churches around the world.
