Religious destinations along the Adriatic Coast of the Emilia Romagna region

Even religious tourism offers interesting attractions: basilicas, monasteries, sanctuaries and places of retreat situated both along the Adriatic Coast and in the hinterland of the Emilia Romagna region.

The ancient basilica of Santa Maria in Vado in Ferrara has been a traditional tourist Mecca since the 12th century. The Sanctuary of the Prodigious Blood is one of the most ancient buildings in Ferrara and was added to the above mentioned Basilica in 1495.

Another important religious centre along the Adriatic Coast is the old town of Ravenna, rich in artistic, cultural and religious masterpieces. The heart of the city consists of the episcopal see. Via dei Romei, the current SS 309, was the ancient via Popilia which led to Ravenna and Rome starting from Venice. It was one of the most appreciated routes for pilgrims who wanted to visit Rome and still hosts numerous religious buildings, monasteries and places of retreat.

In the province of Forlì-Cesena is the famous Sanctuary of San Vicinio in Sarsina, which every year attracts pilgrims from all over the world. The Cathedral of Sarsina, which hosts the relics of the Saint, still retains its original Romanesque structure. Not to be missed is the Eremo of Sant'Antonio, situated near the monastery of Montepaolo in Dovadola, where the Saint lived between 1221 and 1222.

In the mountains between San Marino and the Montefeltro are many religious centres. On the top of Mount Titano, where Saint Marino founded one of the most ancient Christian communities about 1700 years ago, is the Sacellum of the Saint, to be reached through a rough path. The relics of the Saint are cherished by the Parish church named after him situated in the old town. During the celebrations taking place on 13 September, thousands of tourists reach the parish church to pay their respect to the Saint.

Click "Where to Book" to gain information about the accommodation facilities which provide religious hospitality for both individuals and groups along the Adriatic Coast and to discover how to plan interesting religious holidays, itineraries or retreats in the most appreciated pilgrimage destinations.