
Oratorio di San Sebastiano
A 16th-century oratory in Sanremo's historic La Pigna, adorned with 18th-century frescoes, built as a plague votive.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Official opening hours

Oratorio di San Sebastiano
Best Time
Official opening hours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century oratory in Sanremo's historic La Pigna, adorned with 18th-century frescoes, built as a plague votive.
"Worth a visit. Absolutely. Unexpected for the richness of the decorations and the beauty of the frescoes."

🎯 Check Opening Hours
Open only Saturdays 10-12:30. Inquire about special openings!
🚶 Explore La Pigna
Wander the historic 'La Pigna' district for a full experience.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

16th Century Frescoes
Interior
Admire the vibrant 18th-century frescoes by Maurizio Carrega, a testament to the oratory's rich artistic heritage.

Piazzetta Oratorio dei Dolori
Exterior
Experience the charm of this small square, featuring a historic public fountain at its heart.

Plague Votive History
Exterior
Understand its origin as a votive offering built after the 1502 plague, dedicated to San Sebastiano, the protector against epidemics.
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Planning Your Visit
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Discovering La Pigna
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Opening Hours
Open only Saturdays 10-12:30. Inquire about special openings!
🚶 Explore La Pigna
Wander the historic 'La Pigna' district for a full experience.
🖼️ Admire the Art
Don't miss the 18th-century frescoes by Maurizio Carrega.
💧 Public Fountain
See the characteristic fountain in the piazza.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Opening Hours
Open only Saturdays 10-12:30. Inquire about special openings!
🚶 Explore La Pigna
Wander the historic 'La Pigna' district for a full experience.
🖼️ Admire the Art
Don't miss the 18th-century frescoes by Maurizio Carrega.
💧 Public Fountain
See the characteristic fountain in the piazza.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Oratorio di San Sebastiano a worthwhile historical gem in Sanremo's charming La Pigna district, particularly appreciating its 18th-century frescoes and historical significance as a plague votive. However, its extremely limited opening hours are a frequent point of frustration, often leaving visitors unable to enter.
"A historical landmark in the old quarter of Sanremo known as La Pigna.
It was founded by vote of the citizens after overcoming the plague epidemic of 1502.
It stands in Piazzetta Oratorio dei Dolori,
with a characteristic public fountain from the Turin Social Foundry at its center."
Roberto Moretto
"Worth a visit. Absolutely.
Two posters and frescoes by Maurizio Carrega (18th century) adorn the oratory, built in the early 16th century.
Volunteers open the oratory on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m."
Giuseppe Longo
"On the occasion of "Sanremo in fiore" on March 25 and 26, 2023, the oratory finally remained open.
Unexpected for the richness of the decorations and the beauty of the frescoes.
I hope that the extraordinary openings will become more frequent."
Chiara Ginocchi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oratorio di San Sebastiano is located in the historic 'La Pigna' district of Sanremo. It's best reached on foot as the old town is largely pedestrianized. If arriving by car, park outside the historic center and walk in.
As it's in an old historic center, access might involve walking on uneven surfaces or stairs. It's part of the charming, albeit sometimes challenging, old town of Sanremo.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Oratorio di San Sebastiano has very limited opening hours, typically only on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. It's advisable to confirm these hours locally or check for any special event openings.
Entry is usually free, as it's a historical oratory often managed by volunteers. However, donations are often appreciated to help with its upkeep.
The standard opening times are very restricted, primarily Saturdays. Special openings have occurred during events like 'Sanremo in Fiore,' so keeping an eye on local event calendars is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can admire the historical architecture and notable frescoes by Maurizio Carrega from the 18th century. It's a small but historically significant space.
It was built in the early 16th century as a votive offering by citizens after they survived the plague epidemic of 1502, dedicated to San Sebastiano, the patron saint against pestilence.
Yes, the oratory is situated in the Piazzetta Oratorio dei Dolori, which features a characteristic public fountain at its center, adding to the charm of the historic square.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always best to check for any specific signage or ask volunteers on-site. Flash photography might be restricted to protect the frescoes.
The Piazzetta Oratorio dei Dolori with the fountain offers a nice exterior shot. The narrow, charming streets of the La Pigna district surrounding the oratory also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure children wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces. The limited opening times mean you'll need to be strategic about fitting it into your day. Consider it a brief, enriching stop within a larger exploration of Sanremo's old town, rather than a primary destination for young children.
🚶 Solo Travelers & History Buffs
Take advantage of the Saturday openings to immerse yourself in the stories of the plague and the community's devotion. The surrounding La Pigna district is perfect for solo exploration, allowing you to wander at your own pace and discover the authentic charm of Sanremo's old town.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Plague and San Sebastiano
The oratory's location in the historic 'La Pigna' district further immerses visitors in the atmosphere of old Sanremo. Exploring the surrounding narrow alleys and the Piazzetta Oratorio dei Dolori, with its distinctive public fountain, offers a tangible connection to the past. It's a place where history isn't just read about, but felt through the architecture and the stories embedded within its walls.
While the exterior and its historical context are compelling, the interior holds artistic treasures. The oratory is adorned with frescoes by Maurizio Carrega, dating from the 18th century. These artworks add another layer of cultural richness to the site, showcasing the enduring artistic traditions of the region. Visiting the Oratorio di San Sebastiano is therefore not just a historical excursion, but also an artistic discovery.
Navigating Sanremo's Historic Heart: La Pigna
Accessing La Pigna and the Oratorio requires a willingness to walk and navigate its unique topography. Many areas are pedestrian-only, and the terrain can be uneven, with steps and inclines. This makes it a destination best explored on foot, allowing you to fully absorb the atmosphere and discover its hidden gems. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended for anyone planning to wander through these historic streets.
Within La Pigna, the Oratorio di San Sebastiano stands as a significant point of interest. Its presence in this historic quarter underscores the deep roots of faith and community in Sanremo. The surrounding piazzetta, with its public fountain, serves as a focal point, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the historical ambiance before or after their visit to the oratory.




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