A place of faith, art and history, nestled amongst the hills of the Rimini countryside
Situated on the the picturesque Covignano hill, about three kilometres from the centre of Rimini, the Shrine of Santa Maria delle Grazie It is one of the most fascinating religious complexes in the diocese. Originally a small place of worship, over the centuries it has welcomed pilgrims, has seen flourish sacred art and represented a spiritual guide for the local community.
Origins and historical development
Tradition has it that in the 1266 a young man called In the woods of Covignano, Rustico came across a tree that inspired him to carve an image of the Virgin Mary. The carved statue is said to have then miraculously arrived in Venice by sea, where she is still venerated today in the church of San Marziale as the ‘Madonna of Rimini’.
To commemorate the prodigy, In 1391, the first Gothic church was built, followed by extensions and architectural alterations in the centuries that followed. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the complex was enlarged, incorporating the existing structures into a new, larger church. A The Annunciation by the Umbrian painter Ottaviano Nelli (originally attributed to Giotto), whilst along the walls there are other paintings and crucifixes from the 15th-century school and later.
Art and spirituality
The artistic features of the sanctuary reflect the the richness of Italian pictorial and devotional traditions:
- The Annunciation (c. 1425) attributed to Ottaviano Nelli, situated on the high altar.
- Crucifix from the Emilian school of the early 15th century, in the right-hand aisle.
- Other works and paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries, including a ‘Nativity’ by Giovanni Laurentini, dated 1602.
Next to the church is the The Stations of the Cross on the hillside, one of the oldest in the region, enhanced by polychrome ceramics created by the Rimini-based artist Elio Morri (20th century).
Opening hours and contact details
Address: Viale delle Grazie, 10 – 47923 Rimini (Covignano).
Phone: 0541 751061 (Shrine).
Opening hours Opening hours (general):
In winter: 06:00–12:00 and 15:00–18:00
In summer: 06:00–12:00 and 16:00–19:00
Liturgical services and confessions: usually every day from 09:00 to 11:00 and from 16:00 to 16:45 (times may vary).
Admission is free.
Guided tours available on request.
How to get there
The sanctuary stands on Covignano Hill, a scenic spot just outside the town centre. It is easily accessible in a number of ways:
- By car: take the Rimini Nord or Rimini Sud exits on the A14 motorway, then follow the Statale Adriatica towards Via Covignano and the signs for the sanctuary.
- By bus: city bus routes 15, 16 and 7 stop nearby; the most convenient stops are Covignano-Crucis and Bv. Grazie, just a few minutes’ walk away.
- By train: from Rimini station, you can take one of the city buses or walk to the sanctuary – it takes about 15–20 minutes.
- Parking: there are parking areas near the sanctuary.
Practical tips for your visit
Morning or late afternoon are the best times to combine your visit with a walk in the countryside or to admire the view of the city of Rimini from the slopes of the hill.
The Way of the Cross offers a meditative journey that can be experienced either before or after a visit to the church.
If you’re visiting in Christmas period, the church houses a 18th-century terracotta nativity scene On display from 8 December to 6 January at specific times.
Why visit it
The Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie is more than just a church: it is a a place where history, art and faith come together. Amidst the charm of the hilly landscape, i masterpieces of painting and the the tranquillity of the cloister and the Way of the Cross, the tour offers a well-rounded experience — suitable for both art lovers and those seeking contemplation and spiritual tranquillity.
Recommended itinerary
From the historic centre of Rimini to the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie (Covignano)
A leisurely half-day exploring the city, the hills and spirituality
Total duration
- On foot: 2.5–3 hours (one way) · 4–5 hours return
- By bike: 45–60 mins (one way) · 2–3 hours return, including stops
- By bus: 25–30 mins (one way)
Option 1 · On foot (recommended for those who enjoy walking)
Distance: ~3.5 km · Elevation gain: moderate · Difficulty: easy–moderate
Departure
Piazza Cavour
Medieval town centre: a great place to start with a coffee and a brief historical introduction.
Stage 1
Arch of Augustus (10 mins)
From here, take Via Covignano, leaving the city traffic behind you.
Stage 2
Via Covignano (30–40 mins)
The road winds gently upwards past historic houses and patches of greenery; stop at the viewing points to take in the view of the town.
Arrival
Shrine of Santa Maria delle Grazie
Visit the church (30–40 mins) and, time permitting, walk the Stations of the Cross along the hillside (20–30 mins).
Advice on returning home
Walk back (to enjoy the different light and views) or take the bus down.
Option 2 · By bike
- Distance: ~3.5 km · Time: 45–60 mins (one way)
- Follow the city centre cycle path → Via Covignano.
- Final uphill stretch: at a leisurely pace.
- Bicycle parking is available near the shrine.
- Tip: perfect early in the morning or at sunset.
Option 3 · Public transport
- Recommended bus routes: 7 · 15 · 16
- Departure: Railway station or historic centre
- Useful stops: Bv. Grazie / Covignano–Crucis
- Final walk: 5–10 mins
- Ideal if you want to focus your visit on the complex without having to walk long distances.
How to organise your visit (practical information)
Best time: in the morning or late afternoon (soft light, less heat).
Clothing: comfortable; shoulders covered when entering the church.
Length of stay: 60–90 mins (church + Stations of the Cross).
Entrance: free of charge; please observe the liturgical timetable.
Refreshment break: return to the town centre or to farm stays/restaurants in the hills (check days and times).
Suggested mini-itinerary (half a day)
- 09:30 – Departure from the historic centre
- 10.30 – Arrival in Covignano and a visit to the sanctuary
- 11.30 – Stations of the Cross and panoramic view
- 12.30 – Return journey (by bus) or lunch in the hills/town centre
