Italy in Photos

Via IV Novembre, 61032 Fano, Italy (May 2019)

Parrocchia Santi Leonardo e Giovanni Bosco

Situated in the heart of the Adriatic coastal city of Fano, Parrocchia Santi Leonardo e Giovanni Bosco stands as both a place of worship and a living testament to the union of faith, education, and community service. Located on Via IV Novembre, the parish serves as a spiritual anchor for residents and visitors alike, blending the traditions of the Catholic Church with a special dedication to youth and pastoral care.

The origins of the church are closely tied to Saint John Bosco, the “Father and Teacher of Youth”, canonized in 1934. In that same year, Saint Luigi Orione*, founder of the Piccola Opera della Divina Provvidenza (Little Work of Divine Providence), laid the foundation stone for a new sanctuary in Fano dedicated to Don Bosco. This act was not only a gesture of deep veneration but also an expression of gratitude and fraternity toward the Salesians, the congregation founded by Don Bosco himself. The project was part of a broader vision: to unite educational mission and spiritual formation under one roof.

Architecturally, the church was conceived in a basilica style with a modern interpretation of Romanesque elements, reflecting stability, tradition, and openness to contemporary influences. The design was entrusted to engineer Michele Bianchi, who had previously worked on significant projects such as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Guardian in Tortona and the Shrine of Saint Anthony in Reggio Calabria. The building was planned to harmonize with the Istituto Sacro Cuore Mons. Gentili, an educational institution also founded under Don Orione’s guidance, symbolizing the integration of liturgy, learning, and social outreach.

Inside, the church offers a serene yet vibrant atmosphere, with its architectural details, devotional spaces, and pastoral facilities designed to welcome both the faithful and the curious. The dedication to Saint Leonard, a figure associated with compassion and service, alongside Saint John Bosco creates a unique spiritual identity that celebrates both mercy and the transformative power of education.

Today, Parrocchia Santi Leonardo e Giovanni Bosco remains a hub for parish life in Fano. It hosts regular Masses, catechesis, youth programs, and community events, continuing the legacy envisioned by its founders. The parish is not only a place for prayer but also a beacon of hope, a space where spiritual guidance, education, and social support come together to nurture both faith and human dignity.