During the trip to Loreto from Rome, you will stop to marvel at the highest mountain in Central Italy, the magnificent Gran Sasso. Prepare your camera!

Porta Marina is one of the ancient gates of Loreto, located near the Basilica della Santa Casa. This historic entrance once served as the primary access point for pilgrims arriving from the Adriatic Sea, particularly from the nearby port town of Ancona. Surrounded by scenic views of the Adriatic coastline, Porta Marina now serves as a picturesque entry for those walking through Loreto’s charming streets, leading them toward the revered Basilica della Santa Casa.

The Basilica della Santa Casa in Loreto is one of the most revered Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world, renowned for housing the Holy House of Nazareth. According to tradition, this is the home where the Virgin Mary lived and where the Annunciation took place. Miraculously transported to Loreto in the 13th century, the house has since become a focal point of Marian devotion.

The Museo Pontificio Santa Casa is a treasure trove of sacred art and historical artifacts associated with the Basilica della Santa Casa. This museum offers visitors a deeper insight into the religious and cultural significance of the Holy House of the Virgin Mary. The museum houses an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque artworks, including paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and liturgical objects. Many of these masterpieces were donated by pilgrims and religious patrons over the centuries.

Admire the magnificent square that serves as the spiritual and architectural heart of this famous pilgrimage town. At the center of the piazza stands the ornate Fontana Maggiore, an intricately designed fountain that adds to the square's serene atmosphere.