Portico di San Luca Bologna
Walk beneath the world's longest portico (nearly 4km) with 666 arches, leading to the stunning Sanctuary of San Luca.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light & fewer crowds
Portico di San Luca Bologna
Best Time
Golden hour light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk beneath the world's longest portico (nearly 4km) with 666 arches, leading to the stunning Sanctuary of San Luca.
"The Portici di San Luca are truly one of the treasures of Bologna. Walking under the long arcade up to the Sanctuary is an experience in itself."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Almost 4km with 489 steps! Prioritize comfort for the climb.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, carry water. The climb can be strenuous.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 666 Arches
The entire 3.8 km stretch
Walk beneath the world's longest portico, a UNESCO site with a unique spiritual and architectural significance.
Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca
Top of Colle della Guardia
Reach the stunning sanctuary at the summit for panoramic views of Bologna and its surroundings.
Porta Saragozza
Start of the Portico
Begin your journey at this historic 13th-century city gate, marking the traditional start of the portico.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb: Pace Yourself
Timing is Key for Views & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Almost 4km with 489 steps! Prioritize comfort for the climb. 
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, carry water. The climb can be strenuous.
🌅 Aim for Sunset
The golden hour light on the portico is magical.
🚶♀️ Walk Downhill First
Consider walking down from the sanctuary for an easier experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Almost 4km with 489 steps! Prioritize comfort for the climb.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, carry water. The climb can be strenuous.
🌅 Aim for Sunset
The golden hour light on the portico is magical.
🚶♀️ Walk Downhill First
Consider walking down from the sanctuary for an easier experience.
🎶 Enjoy the Atmosphere
Sometimes you'll find musicians along the way! +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Portico di San Luca as a unique and impressive Bologna landmark, highlighting the architectural marvel of the world's longest portico and the rewarding views from the Sanctuary. The walk is often described as a spiritual and physical journey, though the significant climb and number of steps are noted as challenging.
"The Portici di San Luca are truly one of the treasures of Bologna. Walking under the long arcade up to the Sanctuary is an experience in itself, whether for exercise or for reaching the church at the top. Sometimes the arches are beautifully lit up during festivities, which makes the walk even more special. I’ve also seen musicians and singers performing along the way, adding to the atmosphere. It’s a place full of history and life, and one that I always recommend visiting."
Humberto Dapelo
"Even without walking it, the Portici di San Luca is impressive to see from the road; as we drove alongside it you can get the real sense of its scale and significance. Stretching nearly four kilometers with over 600 arches, the portico connects the city to the hilltop sanctuary in a way that’s both functional and symbolic. Seeing it wind its way up from Porta Saragozza to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, it’s easy to appreciate how much history and devotion are built into its structure. Even from the car, it left an impression; one of continuity, tradition, and quiet grandeur."
E Scott Parks
"Porticos actual start is several blocks away leading to the stadium, along the stadium and then all the way up the hill.
It is UNESCO heritage site and world’s longest portico (4km) that leads to the top of Monte della Guardia.
There are 666 arches, which in religious context would represent Satan. Legend has it that it’s a secret of San Luca: it is thought that the intricate portico represents the serpent-devil, crushed by the Madonna.
It’s easy accesible by multiple public busses. You get off close the stadium and go up. I recommend going before sunset, when the heat is not at its worst and the setting sun paints the porticos in a golden glow.
I clocked 1.5 miles each way and about 30-40 min each way. There are a lot of locals who run them up and down as training."
Vlada
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The portico starts near Porta Saragozza in Bologna. You can walk from the city center, or take public buses to get closer to the stadium area, which is near the portico's beginning.
Driving directly to the start of the portico is possible, but parking can be challenging. The portico itself is a pedestrian route.
Yes, several public buses stop near the stadium, a short walk from the portico's start. The San Luca Express shuttle is also an option.
Walking up to the sanctuary and back at a moderate pace takes about 1 hour. The walk itself is nearly 4km one way.
You can walk the entire portico, take the San Luca Express shuttle, or use public buses to get closer to the start.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking the Portico di San Luca is free and accessible to everyone.
Entry to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is generally free, though donations are appreciated.
The portico is always accessible, as it's an outdoor public space. The Sanctuary has specific opening hours.
Yes, the portico is an open-air structure and is accessible at all times.
Yes, events like the San Locca Day feature artisans and street food along the portico.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
It's famous for being the world's longest portico (nearly 4km) with 666 arches, leading to the Sanctuary of San Luca.
In religious context, 666 arches are said to represent the serpent-devil crushed by the Madonna, a symbolic secret of San Luca.
You'll pass 15 chapels with Mysteries of the Rosary and lunettes honoring various coats of arms.
Restroom facilities are limited along the portico itself. It's best to use facilities in the city center or at the Sanctuary.
The portico has many stairs (489 steps) and is largely uphill, making it challenging for strollers and wheelchairs.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire length offers unique perspectives. Capture the arches from below, the city views from the top, and the play of light.
Late afternoon for golden hour light, or early morning for fewer people and soft light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near religious sites. Check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the portico, while a telephoto can be useful for details and distant shots.
Look for the intricate stonework, the varying designs of the arches, and the historical plaques along the way.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider driving or taking a bus closer to the start to shorten the walk, or even opting for the San Luca Express shuttle if the full walk seems too daunting for younger children. The views from the top are a great reward! 👟 Fitness Enthusiasts & Hikers
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Visit during the golden hour before sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: A Journey Through Arches
+2The portico is characterized by its 666 arches, a number often interpreted symbolically in religious contexts. Legend suggests these arches represent the serpent-devil being crushed by the Madonna, a powerful visual metaphor for the sanctuary's purpose. Along the route, you'll find 15 chapels dedicated to the Mysteries of the Rosary, each adorned with lunettes bearing historical coats of arms, adding layers of history and art to the ascent.
While the sheer scale is impressive, the portico also features 489 steps, making the climb a significant physical undertaking. This blend of architectural grandeur, symbolic meaning, and physical challenge makes walking the Portico di San Luca a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
+1The Ascent to Sanctuary: History and Spirituality
The portico's construction was a community-driven endeavor, reflecting the deep faith and civic pride of the Bolognese people. Each arch and step was a contribution to a shared spiritual goal. The journey under the portico is often described as a meditative experience, allowing pilgrims and visitors alike to reflect on faith, history, and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Reaching the sanctuary offers not only a spiritual fulfillment but also breathtaking panoramic views of Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna region. The combination of historical significance, religious devotion, and stunning vistas makes the ascent to San Luca a profound experience.
Navigating the Climb: Practicalities and Tips
+1 Carrying water is also highly recommended, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated throughout the ascent. Consider the timing of your visit. While the portico is always accessible, visiting in the late afternoon offers the advantage of the golden hour, casting a beautiful glow on the arches and providing stunning views as the sun sets.
While the portico itself is a public space, amenities like restrooms are scarce along the route. Plan accordingly by using facilities at the start in Bologna or at the Sanctuary. The portico's inclines and stairs make it challenging for strollers and wheelchairs, so alternative transport like the San Luca Express shuttle or public buses might be more suitable for those with mobility concerns.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit