The Birth of Santa Maria di Nazareth

The church of Santa Maria di Nazareth in Sestri Levante was designed by the architect Giovanni Battista Carbone, and its construction began in 1604, concluding in just over twelve years. It was built on the site where, since 1368, there had been a small chapel dedicated to Santa Maria di Nazareth. As the city expanded on the now consolidated isthmus, it became necessary to construct a larger building closer to the center than the church of San Nicolò.

Transfer of Artistic Works

In 1616, Monsignor Francesco Mottini decreed that the most precious works of art, including the 13th-century wooden Crucifix — still venerated by popular tradition — and the furnishings kept in San Nicolò, be moved to the new church of Santa Maria di Nazareth. This decision emphasized the importance of the new building as a spiritual and artistic center for the community.

Consecration and Religious Significance

The church was consecrated on June 21, 1624, as recorded on the plaque on the back wall, to the right of the entrance. From the second half of the 17th century and throughout the 18th century, Santa Maria di Nazareth became the most important religious and artistic center of the Diocese of Brugnato. The works of art, decorative elements, and the tombstones of the diocesan bishops still testify today to the building’s prestige.

The Neoclassical Portico

Between 1839 and 1840, the architect Giambattista Prato designed the neoclassical portico with columns featuring Ionic capitals and a triangular pediment. The original concrete columns were replaced in 1955 with the current white marble ones. The project was inspired by Carlo Barabino’s portico at the Santissima Annunziata del Vastato in Genoa, giving the church entrance a solemn and harmonious appearance.

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