Oratory of Santi Bernardo e Lucia
santa Margherita Ligure
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
The Oratory of Santi Bernardo e Lucia, built in 1653, is home to the Archconfraternity of St. Bernard. The confraternity was founded in the early 16th century, although according to some sources, it may be even older. Inside, the oratory houses a painting of St. Bernard with St. Erasmus and St. Nicholas of Bari, attributed to Bernardo Castello, those three are the saints protecting the sailors. There is also a 15th-century painting of St. Lucy by Ludovico Brea.
THIS PLACE IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE
This place of worship is known not only for its religious value, but also for its artistic heritage. One of the most fascinating elements of the oratory is the cobblestone churchyard, made in the Ligurian tradition technique of “risseu.” The flattened black and white pebbles are arranged to design a sixteen-point wind rose, a symbol that reflects the town’s strong maritime ties.