One and a quarter mile long, ascending 653 feet at an average gradient of 10.5%, with some stretches of 18%. These daunting figures describe the climb that awaits cyclists on the second stage of the Tour de France.
A popular pilgrimage destination in Bologna
What sets this climb apart is the unique setting it will offer spectators. The road is lined throughout by a staircase protected by a long red arcade that is typical of the city. The magnificent arcade, with its many arches and roof, leads to an imposing shrine that seems to watch over the city of Bologna. Financed by the great families of Bologna, the arcade makes it possible to reach the shrine from the Porta Saragozza, the southeastern entrance to the city’s medieval walls, without the risk of rain.
In fact, the shrine’s importance stems from Bologna’s unpredictable weather. In the 15th century, the people of the city removed the icon of the Virgin Mary from the shrine and carried it in in a procession through the city to alleviate a serious flood — with great success.
An image painted by St. Luke?
According to legend, this Byzantine icon of the Virgin and Child was painted by the evangelist Luke. It is said to have been brought to Bologna by a Greek hermit who had found it in the Basilica of Saint Sophia in Constantinople. Today, it rests in a magnificent 18th-century church that is round and built of red brick.
Though it is reachable by car (or bicycle), many pilgrims choose to climb the “Scalina,” as the arcade is known. Surprisingly, the arcade has 666 arches. This number, of course, evokes the devil, whom the pious pilgrim must confront on his ascent in order to obtain the indulgence promised to those who come to bring their prayers to the local Madonna.
The Madonna of San Luca shrine and its magnificent arcade have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
And today we celebrate...