The Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca, on colle della Guardia (300m a.s.l.), is connected to the centre of Bologna by a porticoed road which winds for 4km from porta Saragozza and, with over 600 arches, is the longest portico in the world. Building began in 1674; today it is a UNESCO heritage site with the other arcades of the city.
The Sanctuary was built later, between 1723 and 1757, by Carlo Francesco Dotti to replace a previous 15th century church, while the two external grandstands were completed by his son Giovanni Giacomo in 1774. In keeping with Bolognese tradition, the façade is free of embellishments and solemn decorations, characterized by the simplicity of the curvilinear profile that supports the dome. Set on an elliptical plan, the internal spaces expand like a Greek cross culminating in a main altar that precedes the chapel of the Virgin. The interior features works by Guido Reni (third altar on the right), Donato Creti (second chapel on the right), Giuseppe Mazza (chapel of St. Antony of Padua) and Guercino (main sacristy).
The opening of a panoramic terrace in 2017, about 42m above colle della Guardia, offers a 180-degree view of Bologna, roaming from the hills to the centre and over Casalecchio di Reno.
Emilia-Romagna Film Commission
Viale Aldo Moro 38 — 40127 Bologna
Phone: +39 051 5278753
Email: filmcom@regione.emilia-romagna.it
