Basilica di San Biagio
1 / 10

Basilica di San Biagio

4.6
·302 reviews·Santa Caterina, Italy

A majestic basilica atop Mount San Biagio, offering breathtaking views of Maratea and the Tyrrhenian coast.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Golden light & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Basilica di San Biagio

Basilica di San Biagio

Best Time

Early mornings

Golden light & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A majestic basilica atop Mount San Biagio, offering breathtaking views of Maratea and the Tyrrhenian coast.

4.6
(302 reviews)

"An impressive local church with a spectacular view."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear comfortable shoes

The climb up Mount San Biagio requires sturdy footwear. :athletic_shoe: Enjoy the walk!

Visit the Redeemer statue

Don't miss the Christ the Redeemer statue nearby for an iconic photo op. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Basilica di San Biagio

Basilica di San Biagio

Mount San Biagio, Maratea

An impressive local church with a neoclassical portico and stunning views overlooking Maratea.

Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Mount San Biagio

Breathtaking vistas of Maratea and the Tyrrhenian coast from the basilica's elevated position.

Statue of Christ the Redeemer

Statue of Christ the Redeemer

Mount San Biagio, Maratea

A majestic statue offering a spiritual presence and complementing the basilica's grandeur.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Accessing Mount San Biagio

Reaching the Basilica of San Biagio involves a scenic climb up Mount San Biagio. While the statue of Christ the Redeemer is a prominent landmark, the basilica itself is a separate, albeit nearby, destination. Plan for a walk up, and check local conditions as access can vary.

Best Time for Views & Serenity

To truly appreciate the basilica and its panoramic views, aim for times with good light and fewer crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photos and a more peaceful experience. Consider the season for comfortable walking conditions.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Golden light & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Spectacular sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🏝️ SIETE MAI STATI QUI? 📌 Ci troviamo all’Isola dei Conigli o Isola di San Biagio, a Manerba del Garda (BS). 👉 Per arrivare il navigatore vi porterà al Campeggio San Biagio, ma essendo chiuso nella stagione invernale è necessario parcheggiare l’auto in prossimità della pizzeria “Primavera” e proseguire a piedi sul lungolago. ‼️ Purtroppo questo fenomeno è legato alla siccità che quest’anno in inv...
@valentinaraso
26.4K likes • 703.8K views

Wear comfortable shoes

The climb up Mount San Biagio requires sturdy footwear. :athletic_shoe: Enjoy the walk!

Visit the Redeemer statue

Don't miss the Christ the Redeemer statue nearby for an iconic photo op. :camerawithflash:

#kalari 🥳 Per un massaggio profondo e muscoli completamente rilassati… Cocoon Spa, via Eraclea 2/b- San Biagio di Callalta- TV- vai sulla mia bio per prenotare!
@cocoonspaveniciadacosta
18.2K likes • 478.8K views
😍🏝️ UN’ISOLA SUL LAGO DI GARDA RAGGIUNGIBILE SENZA BARCA! ⛵️ 📍 È l’isola di San Biagio, detta anche Isola dei Conigli, e si trova a Manerba del Garda. 🚶‍♂️ Puoi raggiungerla a piedi da Punta Belvedere: sono circa 200 metri. 🌊 L’altezza dell’acqua dipende dalla stagione e dal periodo, quindi informati prima di partire! 🛥️ In alternativa puoi partire da Porto Torchio e prendere il taxi boat a soli 3...
@laurabodini__
8.4K likes • 208.7K views

Check access conditions

Local access to the basilica can vary. Inquire locally or check online before your visit. :information_desk:

Bring water

Especially in warmer months, stay hydrated during your ascent. :droplet:

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear comfortable shoes

The climb up Mount San Biagio requires sturdy footwear. :athletic_shoe: Enjoy the walk!

Visit the Redeemer statue

Don't miss the Christ the Redeemer statue nearby for an iconic photo op. :camerawithflash:

Check access conditions

Local access to the basilica can vary. Inquire locally or check online before your visit. :information_desk:

Bring water

Especially in warmer months, stay hydrated during your ascent. :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(302 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Basilica di San Biagio for its impressive architecture and the spectacular panoramic views it offers of Maratea and the coastline. The nearby Statue of Christ the Redeemer adds to the site's grandeur. While the climb can be strenuous, the overall experience is highly rewarding, making it a must-visit for its scenic beauty and spiritual significance.

"Nice building with a spectacular view."

Gyula Guba

"Impressive local church."

Mike Nettleton

"The Basilica of San Biagio is the main Catholic place of worship in the municipality of Maratea, located atop Mount San Biagio, opposite the statue of the Redeemer. The church's façade features a three-arched neoclassical portico, with four columns supporting a triangular tympanum containing a niche containing a small white marble statue of Saint Blaise.
The church's north nave is supported by three massive buttresses, while the south nave rests partly on a rock ridge. A small bell tower rises on the left side of the structure.
Inside, the church is divided into four spaces: three naves and the presbytery, which is almost as large as the central nave. Today, the church appears adorned with Romanesque-style arches, although before the 1963-69 renovations, the vaults had varied designs, from Tuscan to Gothic.
The church currently does not house a large number of works of art."

Antonio Vergallo

What People Like

Spectacular panoramic views
Impressive architecture
Majestic Redeemer statue

What People Dislike

Strenuous climb

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Basilica di San Biagio is located atop Mount San Biagio. You'll typically start from the area near the Statue of Christ the Redeemer and follow signs or a path upwards. Parking is available in Maratea, and then it's a walk or a short drive/taxi ride to the base of the mountain path. Some visitors mention that access can be tricky, so confirming local conditions is advised. TikTokReddit

Parking is generally available in the town of Maratea. From there, you'll need to ascend Mount San Biagio. Some sources suggest parking near the pizzeria 'Primavera' if approaching from a specific direction, but this might be more relevant for coastal access points. TikTok

Public transport options to the base of Mount San Biagio might be limited. It's often recommended to drive or take a taxi to a convenient starting point for the ascent. Check local bus schedules for Maratea if relying on public transport. Reddit

The walk up Mount San Biagio can be steep in parts, so comfortable footwear is essential. The path offers increasingly rewarding views as you ascend towards the basilica and the Christ the Redeemer statue. Reddit

Due to its elevated location and the nature of the climb, the Basilica di San Biagio may present challenges for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility options beforehand. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, entry to the Basilica di San Biagio itself is free. However, there might be associated costs for parking or if you opt for guided tours or specific services within the complex. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check locally or with tourist information for the most up-to-date times. The basilica is a place of worship, so hours may be subject to religious services. Reddit

Similar to the basilica, access to the Statue of Christ the Redeemer is typically free. The primary costs would be related to transportation and parking in the Maratea area. Reddit

The basilica is generally accessible year-round, but weather conditions, especially during winter, might affect the climb. It's always a good idea to check local advisories during off-peak seasons. TikTok

While not always formally advertised, local guides may be available in Maratea who can offer tours of Mount San Biagio, including the basilica and the Redeemer statue. Inquire locally for options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities are from the basilica's terrace, offering panoramic views of Maratea and the coast. The facade of the basilica itself, with its neoclassical portico, is also a striking subject. Don't forget shots with the Statue of Christ the Redeemer in the background. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour before sunset offers particularly dramatic and beautiful lighting for both the basilica and the surrounding landscape. Reddit

Photography inside places of worship is often permitted, but it's respectful to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services. Check for any posted signs regarding photography rules inside the basilica. Reddit

Drone regulations can be strict, especially in protected areas or near religious sites. It's crucial to check current Italian drone laws and local restrictions before flying a drone near Mount San Biagio. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and the basilica's facade. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the statue or distant coastal shots. A sturdy tripod is beneficial for low-light photography during sunrise or sunset. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the Basilica di San Biagio with children can be a memorable adventure. The climb up Mount San Biagio offers a chance for kids to burn energy, and the impressive scale of the Statue of Christ the Redeemer is often a hit. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as the ascent can be tiring. Consider the time of day to avoid the hottest parts of the afternoon. Reddit

While the basilica itself is a place of worship, the surrounding area provides space for children to explore. The stunning views can also be a great way to engage them with the natural beauty of the region. Ensure they have comfortable shoes for the walk, and make it a fun journey rather than just a destination. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Mount San Biagio is an excellent destination for solo travelers seeking both spiritual reflection and breathtaking scenery. The climb offers a sense of accomplishment, and the panoramic views provide ample opportunity for quiet contemplation. You can take your time to absorb the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Reddit

Interacting with locals or other visitors at the base or along the path can add to the experience. The presence of the Redeemer statue and the basilica makes it a well-trodden path, so you're unlikely to feel isolated. It's a perfect spot to capture stunning photos and enjoy the grandeur of Maratea at your own pace. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Mount San Biagio is a dream location. The interplay of light and shadow on the basilica's facade, the dramatic scale of the Christ the Redeemer statue, and the sweeping coastal vistas offer endless creative possibilities. The best times for photography are undoubtedly sunrise and sunset, when the light is soft and atmospheric. Reddit

Bring a range of lenses, from wide-angle for landscapes to telephoto for details. A tripod is highly recommended for capturing those magical low-light shots. Be prepared for a bit of a hike to get to the prime viewpoints, but the photographic rewards are immense. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Architecture of San Biagio

The Basilica di San Biagio, perched atop Mount San Biagio in Maratea, is a significant religious site with a history rooted in devotion. Its current form, largely shaped by renovations between 1963 and 1969, showcases a blend of architectural styles. The facade is characterized by a striking three-arched neoclassical portico, topped by a triangular tympanum that houses a small white marble statue of Saint Blaise, the church's patron saint. This architectural element provides a grand entrance to the sacred space. Reddit

The basilica's interior is divided into three naves and a presbytery, with the central nave being particularly spacious. While the church has undergone significant restoration, it retains elements of its past, including Romanesque-style arches. Before the extensive renovations, the vaults displayed a variety of designs, hinting at different historical periods of construction and modification. Today, the basilica houses Baroque marble inlays and, importantly, a silver urn containing the relics of Saint Blaise, a figure venerated for interceding in cases of sore throat. Reddit

Strategically located opposite the iconic Statue of Christ the Redeemer, the Basilica di San Biagio offers not just spiritual solace but also a profound connection to the landscape. The climb to reach it is rewarded with breathtaking views, making it a destination that appeals to both pilgrims and sightseers. The basilica's presence on the mountaintop is a testament to its enduring importance in the region's cultural and religious heritage. Reddit

Experiencing Mount San Biagio: Views and the Redeemer

Mount San Biagio is a dual attraction, offering both the spiritual significance of the Basilica di San Biagio and the awe-inspiring presence of the Statue of Christ the Redeemer. The journey to the summit is an experience in itself, with the landscape unfolding as you ascend. The statue, a colossal figure overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, is a modern marvel and a powerful symbol of faith and Maratea's identity. Visitors often describe the feeling of standing beneath it as profound and humbling. Reddit

The panoramic views from Mount San Biagio are consistently praised by visitors. From this vantage point, you can see the entire town of Maratea spread out below, with its charming houses cascading down the hillside towards the sparkling blue waters of the coast. The coastline stretches out in both directions, offering a spectacular vista of coves, cliffs, and the vast expanse of the sea. Many recommend visiting during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most dramatic and picturesque lighting. TikTokReddit

Combining a visit to the basilica and the Redeemer statue makes for a comprehensive experience of Mount San Biagio. The proximity of these two landmarks allows for a seamless exploration, where you can appreciate both the historical religious architecture and the monumental modern sculpture, all while soaking in some of the most stunning views in the region. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a fair amount of walking involved to fully explore the area. Reddit

You may also like