Festa di Nostra Signora di Montallegro 2026 — Rapallo’s Patron Saint Celebration

Every year in early July, the seaside town of Rapallo celebrates its most cherished tradition: the Festa di Nostra Signora di Montallegro. This three-day religious and cultural festival honors the miraculous apparition of the Virgin Mary to a local farmer, Giovanni Chichizola, on July 2, 1557 — an event that transformed Rapallo and led to the construction of one of Liguria’s most important Marian sanctuaries.

The Story Behind the Festival

The sanctuary sits atop Monte Letho at 612 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Tigullio Gulf. According to tradition, the Madonna appeared to Chichizola and urged the Rapallesi to build a church in her honor. The faithful did exactly that, and since 1739, Nostra Signora di Montallegro has been the official patron saint of Rapallo and its ancient captaincy.

The festival spans three days — July 1st through 3rd — with the most intense celebrations on July 2nd, the actual feast day. It’s a unique blend of deep Catholic devotion and vibrant Ligurian street party energy.

What to Expect

• The Evening Procession (July 1): The festivities kick off with a torchlit procession from the historic center up to the sanctuary. Hundreds of faithful walk the winding road, singing traditional hymns.
• Solemn Mass & Procession (July 2): The main day features a pontifical mass at the sanctuary, followed by the grand procession carrying the venerated image of the Madonna through Rapallo’s streets. Local confraternities in traditional robes, the town band, and civic authorities all participate.
• Mortaretti & Fireworks: Rapallo’s signature “mortaretti” — traditional Ligurian firecrackers — echo through the hills, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over the Gulf of Tigullio on the evening of July 2. The reflections on the water are unforgettable.
• Street Food & Markets: The lungomare fills with food stalls serving local specialties: focaccia al formaggio, fried anchovies, pansoti with walnut sauce, and farinata. The market stalls sell everything from religious articles to handmade crafts.
• Closing Celebrations (July 3): The final day includes a more intimate mass, children’s activities, and evening concerts in the town squares.

Practical Tips

Reaching the sanctuary is part of the experience. You can drive up (limited parking), take the cable car (funivia) from Rapallo’s center, or — for the adventurous — hike the scenic trail that winds through olive groves. The hike takes about 1.5 hours and is moderately challenging but incredibly rewarding. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

Rapallo gets very crowded on July 2. Arrive early if you want a good spot for the fireworks. Many restaurants along the waterfront offer special festival menus — book ahead. If you’re staying in nearby Santa Margherita Ligure or Portofino, it’s an easy bus or train ride.

For more about Rapallo and its surroundings, check out our Things to Do in Liguria guide and our destination articles covering the entire Italian Riviera.