Festa della Madonna della Guardia
The solemnity of the patron saint of Liguria at the sanctuary of Monte Figogna, above Ceranesi
About Madonna della Guardia
The sanctuary of Monte Figogna
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Guard stands on the summit of Monte Figogna, at over 800 meters altitude, within the municipality of Ceranesi, in the Metropolitan City of Genoa. It is one of Liguria's most important places of worship: Our Lady of the Guard is indeed the patron saint of the region and the object of unceasing popular devotion.
The apparition of 1490
The festival on August 29th commemorates the apparition of the Madonna to the shepherd Benedetto Pareto, which according to tradition occurred in 1490. From that event, the sanctuary was born, which over the centuries has become the spiritual heart of the people of Genoa and Liguria, with "daughter" sanctuaries spread throughout Italy and the world.
Novena, pilgrimage, and procession
The celebrations begin with the novena starting from August 20th. On the evening of August 28th, the evocative evening pilgrimage takes place, led by the Archbishop of Genoa, ascending to the sanctuary. On August 29th, the day of the solemnity, the solemn Mass and the procession are celebrated. For the occasion, dedicated shuttle services are activated to reach the summit of Figogna. A festival that combines faith, tradition, and Ligurian identity.
Madonna della Guardia — edition 2026
The Festa della Madonna della Guardia follows the same liturgical calendar each year: the novena from August 20th, the evening pilgrimage on August 28th led by the Archbishop of Genoa, and the solemnity on August 29th with Mass and procession. The detailed timetable is published by the sanctuary in the weeks preceding the event.
Programme Madonna della Guardia 2026
- From August 20 — Novena in preparation for the festival
- August 28, evening — Evening pilgrimage to the sanctuary led by the Archbishop of Genoa
- August 29 — Solemn Mass and procession, with special AMT shuttle buses to reach Monte Figogna
Precise times for the celebrations and shuttle buses are announced by the sanctuary closer to the festival date.
Highlights Madonna della Guardia 2026
Prices Madonna della Guardia 2026
Practical information — Madonna della Guardia
How to get there
The sanctuary is located on Monte Figogna, above Ceranesi, in the hinterland of Genoa. By car, you can ascend from Genova-Bolzaneto following signs for the sanctuary. For the festival, special AMT shuttle buses are provided for pilgrims.
Information
Admission to the celebrations is free. Given the altitude and the crowds, appropriate clothing is recommended, and it's advisable to check the shuttle bus schedules. Information is available on the sanctuary's website.
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Where does it take place — Madonna della Guardia
Santuario di Nostra Signora della Guardia (Monte Figogna)
Santuario di Nostra Signora della Guardia, Monte Figogna, 16014 Ceranesi