Senigallia - Ancona - Loreto

The history of Christianity in the neighbouring province of Ancona has left many relics of its activity.
Taking the Adriatic coast road south from Fano we reach Senigallia. In the Cathedral, the Chapel of the Madonna della Speranza is of particular interest. Giovanni Maria Mastai Ferretti, later Pope Pius IX and recently sanctified by Pope John Paul II, was baptised here in 1792.

Continuing our pilgrimage south, we arrive at Ancona, the regional capital. Here we can visit the Cathedral of San Ciriaco and the small Romanesque Byzantine Church of Santa Maria della Piazza, a place of outstanding architectural importance.

Heading inland we reach the Sanctuary of Loreto which is regarded as one of the major world centres of Christianity. The basilica, built and decorated by numerous architects, sculptors and painters, houses the famous building were the Virgin Mary lived in Nazareth, known as the Holy House. According to tradition, the house was flown here, carried by angels. Throughout its history, Loreto has attracted pilgrims from throughout the world, bringing the sick and those in suffering to this Marche hill town to meet in prayer. On the second Sunday of each June, young Christians walk from Macerata to Loreto in pilgrimage.