Santuario di Madonna di San Luca (Sanctuary of Our Lady of San Luca), Bologna (must see)

Perched atop a forested hill southwest of the city, connected to it by the world's longest portico, stands the renowned Sanctuary of Our Lady of San Luca (church: free, terrace: donation). Dating back to 1732, this distinctive pink basilica took fifty years to construct, stretching 3.8 kilometres (2.3 miles) with 666 arches, winding its way up from Piazza di Porta Saragozza. At the summit, visitors are rewarded with stunning views of the Apennines.

The 18th-century sanctuary features rich adornments and is home to a highly venerated Byzantine-style Madonna image, likely originating from medieval times but once attributed to Saint Luke. Every Ascension Week, the Madonna is carried down the hill to the Cathedral of San Pietro, drawing crowds along Via Saragozza to witness the procession. The church attracts barefoot pilgrims, worshippers, as well as joggers and cyclists who ascend the hill to burn off their pasta calories.