Sanctuary of Saints Sixtus II P.M. and the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Genoa’s Prè: Faith, History, and Adventure

Nestled in the heart of Genoa’s Prè district, the Sanctuary of Saints Sixtus II P.M. and the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary stands as a place of profound spirituality, steeped in history and legend. Its existence weaves together faith, art, and events that have shaped the city, making it an unmissable destination for pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike.

A Sanctuary Born from Victory: History and Devotion

The sanctuary’s origins are closely tied to a pivotal historical event: the victory of the Genoese fleet, allied with Pisa, against the Arabs at Mehdia on August 6, 1087—the feast day of St. Sixtus II. In gratitude for this victory, attributed to the Saint’s intercession, an initial church was erected between 1088 and 1093.

The consecration took place on January 31, 1602, followed by additional consecrations after renovations in 1610 and on November 23, 1828.

The original church was under the jurisdiction of the Abbey of S. Michele della Chiusa near Turin, as evidenced by a papal bull from Urban II dated March 17, 1095. Monks remained present until 1479, with a brief interruption between approximately 1217 and 1241. Later, between 1479 and 1564, the church was entrusted to ecclesiastical commendatories before passing to the secular clergy in 1564.

St. Sixtus II: A Martyr Pope in Ancient Rome

Sixtus II, to whom the sanctuary is dedicated, served as Pope from 257 to 258 A.D., during a time of great tension for Rome’s Christian community. His pontificate was brief but intense, marked by the persecution under Emperor Valerian. St. Sixtus II was martyred on August 6, 258, beheaded during a celebration in the Catacombs of St. Callixtus. His legacy embodies unwavering courage and faith in the face of death.

Architecture and Art: A Journey Through the Centuries

The current building is the result of a reconstruction that began in 1825 and concluded in 1828, featuring a distinctive central-plan design. In 1837, the opening of Via Carlo Alberto necessitated the demolition of part of the choir and the elevation of the façade. The dome was erected in 1844, completing the sanctuary’s present appearance.

Inside, atop the high altar, stands the statue of St. Sixtus II (1856), a masterpiece by Giovanni Battista Cevasco, gifted by Marquis Ignazio Alessandro Pallavicini. This work is a magnificent example of Neoclassical sculpture, capturing the solemnity and spirituality of the Saint. A gilded urn holds the skull and some bones of the saint, relics venerated by the faithful.

The Confraternities: The Beating Heart of Religious Life

The sanctuary has hosted several confraternities, reflecting the vibrant religious life of the neighborhood. Among these, the Confraternity of Our Lady of Succor, founded around 1460, stands out. In 1611, the brothers built an oratory near the church. In 1756, the Confraternity of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary merged with it, and the oratory took on the title of Our Lady of Succor and the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In 1811, due to a Napoleonic law, the oratory was annexed to the parish church of St. Sixtus and later demolished (1826) to make way for the new church. Other confraternities included those of St. Charles, St. Angela Merici and St. Ursula, among others.

The Saint’s Bones: Research and Devotion

Among the most precious relics preserved in the sanctuary are the bones of St. Sixtus II, housed in a gilded urn. The presence of these relics lends the site an aura of sanctity and draws numerous pilgrims devoted to the Saint. Research into historical sources and testimonies related to the relics’ arrival in Genoa could reveal fascinating details and add another layer to the sanctuary’s history.

A Spiritual and Cultural Adventure

Visiting the Sanctuary of Saints Sixtus II P.M. and the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is not only an act of faith but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in Genoa’s history and art. Its location in the heart of Prè—a district rich in charm and traditions—offers the chance to discover picturesque corners and experience an authentic journey.

Adventurous Research Ideas:

• Parish Archives: Delve into the history of the confraternities active in the sanctuary by exploring parish archives.
• Local Legends: Collect the legends and folk traditions tied to the sanctuary and the veneration of St. Sixtus II.
• Historical Trails: Trace the journey of the Saint’s relics to their arrival in Genoa.

Prè, Genoa, Italy