In Rapallo will celebrate the Appearance of the Holy Mother of God

Only forty kilometers from Genoa on the Mediterranean coast is located the town of Rapallo, which deservedly is thought to be one of the best resorts of the Ligurian Riviera. The main attraction of the city is the Basilica Santuario della Madonna di Montallegro. Its history is connected with the legend, according to which on July 2, 1557 on the Mount Allegro to a peasant Pio Chichizola appeared the Holy Mother of God, which told him to build a church here. Since church was built Madonna Montallegro is considered to be the patroness saint of the city. She is associated with the major holiday in Rapallo - Feste Di Luglio, which is held annually from 1 to 3 July.

During this holiday the silver shrine with a statue of the Madonna Montallegro is carried across the city. During the marching of the solemn procession it accompanied by deafening barrage of firecrackers and fireworks. This salute is called "Welcoming of Madonna" and it is arranged in turn by different districts (2-3 districts per year), so the district, which had the honor to organize " Welcoming of Madonna" is trying to outdo its neighbors, as well as last year's firework. In the evenings all activities are moved to the coast, where along the beach are set special wax lights, and over the sea is organized a fire extravaganza. During three days of the holiday fireworks does not stop even for a moment.

In addition to the Basilica Santuario della Madonna di Montallegro, Rapallo can boast of the San Michele museum, where tourists can admire the works of such great artists Guido Reni and Van Dyck. And not far from the church is located the residence of the current maestro of Sovereign Military Order of Malta. Also visitors of the city will be interested in visiting the Cathedral of Saints Gervasius & Protasius of the 12th century due to numerous reconstructions now everyone can see the second "falling" tower in Italy.