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Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernard: A Haven of Faith in the Heart of Genoa

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernard, nestled in the Castelletto district of Genoa, is an oasis of spirituality and a landmark for the faithful. This sacred place, rich in history and art, invites reflection and prayer, offering a profound and renewing experience of faith.

History and Devotion: A Journey Through the Centuries

The sanctuary’s history is a fascinating tapestry of events and religious figures. Its origins date back to the 13th century when Cistercian monks founded the Church of St. Bernard. The earliest confirmed records date to November 6, 1212, when the church’s jurisdiction was confirmed to the Chapter of San Lorenzo, to which it remained linked until 1538.

The passage of time has not spared this place of worship. In 1418, during turbulent civic conflicts, the church was destroyed by the Genoese government, likely to prevent it from becoming a refuge for warring factions. However, the faith and devotion of the locals enabled its reconstruction.

In 1538, the church passed to the monks of San Bartolomeo degli Armeni, who rebuilt it around 1572 and cared for it until 1650. Later, it returned to the possession of the Canons of San Lorenzo, who leased it in perpetuity to private individuals, passing from the Merello to the Sertorio and finally to the Centurione families. In 1875, the Capuchin Fathers purchased the church from Vittorio Centurione, marking a new chapter in its history.

Our Lady of Lourdes: A Marian Devotion That Renews Faith

The arrival of the Capuchin Fathers in 1875 marked the introduction of devotion to Our Lady of Lourdes, a Marian tradition that has deeply rooted itself in the Genoese community. The first feast in honor of Our Lady of Lourdes was celebrated in 1878, and since then, the sanctuary has become a beacon for the faithful seeking comfort and hope through prayer.

The statue of Our Lady of Lourdes, carved by Angelo Marcenaro in the 19th century, stands atop the high altar. The work, simple yet deeply meaningful, invites reflection on the figure of Mary, mother of Jesus and a symbol of hope and consolation.

St. Bernard: The Doctor of the Church and His Spiritual Legacy

The sanctuary is also dedicated to St. Bernard of Clairvaux, a 12th-century Cistercian monk, theologian, and mystic. St. Bernard is considered one of the Church Fathers and a cornerstone of Christian spirituality. His austere and profound figure calls for the pursuit of truth and contemplation of the divine mystery.

Art and Architecture: A Heritage to Discover

The church, renovated by the Capuchin Fathers between 1875 and 1876, was severely damaged during World War II in 1942 but was restored and expanded again in 1948. Today, it features a three-nave structure with five altars, a testament to its tumultuous history and the devotion that has kept it alive.

Among the artworks preserved in the sanctuary, the ex-votos stand out—tangible testimonies of the faith and gratitude of the faithful. Small plaques, inscribed metal sheets, paintings, real or depicted prosthetics, and various objects tell stories of healings, answered prayers, and hardships overcome through the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernard.

A Journey of Faith and Adventure: Exploring the Sanctuary

Beyond its spiritual and artistic dimensions, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernard also offers opportunities for “adventurous exploration.” For example, visitors can search for traces of the original construction or investigate the stories behind the ex-votos. Some faithful claim that at certain times of the day, a special energy can be felt within the sanctuary, almost like an echo of past prayers.

Another intriguing activity could involve reconstructing the history of the families who owned the church before the Capuchins, searching through local archives. Finally, the sanctuary’s location in Castelletto offers a panoramic view of the city of Genoa, providing an opportunity to meditate on the beauty of creation.

Useful Information for Visitors

• Address: Castelletto, Genoa, Italy
• Opening Hours: Check the parish website for updated hours.
• Celebrations: Regular Masses and special services during religious holidays.
• How to Get There: The sanctuary is easily accessible by public transport or car.

The Congregation of Our Lady of Lourdes: A Connection to Rome

On June 18, 1877, the Congregation of Our Lady of Lourdes was established, and on July 6, 1878, it was affiliated with the Roman Archconfraternity of the same name. This connection enriched the Genoese Confraternity with all the privileges and indulgences granted by the Holy See to those in Rome and Lourdes, further strengthening its role in the local religious community.

Castelletto, Genoa, Italy