Visit the Santuario della Santa Casa — one of Catholicism's most venerated sites — where the Holy House of Nazareth is said to rest inside a sumptuous basilica. With a private art-historian guide, the spiritual and artistic layers of this extraordinary place are fully revealed.
What to expect
The hilltop town of Loreto is just 25 km south of Ancona — a 30-minute drive through gentle Marche countryside. Your guide leads you inside the Renaissance basilica to stand within the Holy House itself, enclosed in its extraordinary carved marble 'wrapper' designed by Bramante. The Museo Antico Tesoro preserves papal gifts spanning five centuries, from Byzantine reliquaries to Flemish tapestries. The Piazza della Madonna, framed by Sangallo's arcaded palazzo, is one of the most harmonious squares in Italy. The excursion runs 5–6 hours comfortably, leaving time for an espresso in the piazza.
Good to know
Modest dress required (shoulders and knees covered) inside the basilica; scarves available at the entrance. Loreto is 30 minutes from port. Easily combined with a Recanati visit (birthplace of poet Leopardi) for a full cultural day. Pre-book your private guide.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Ancona — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.