Madonna Bianca in Porto Venere – History, Programme & How to Get There from Levanto
Every 17 August, the seaside village of Porto Venere, in the Gulf of Poets, celebrates the Madonna Bianca, a magical blend of beauty, folklore and devotion that draws visitors from all over the world. In 2026, the feast day falls on a Monday.
Evening programme, 17 August 2026
- 8:30pm: Recitation of the Holy Rosary
- 9:00pm: Solemn procession through the historic streets, accompanied by the Riomaggiore Music Band
Thousands of candles illuminate the cliffs, the harbour and the Church of St Peter, creating one of the most unforgettable sights in Liguria.
The history of the Madonna Bianca in Porto Venere
The tradition dates back to 1399, a difficult time when Porto Venere and Genoa were torn apart by internal conflicts, lost their independence, and suffered the devastation of a terrible plague.
One evening, a devoted villager named Lucciard was praying in front of holy paintings in his home. Suddenly, one image, a faded 14th-century parchment, miraculously regained its colours, revealing a White Madonna with the Child and two saints at her sides.
The miracle was witnessed by many and officially recorded. The precious icon is still preserved in the Church of San Lorenzo, where it is venerated today. Legend has it that the painting arrived by sea in 1204, sealed inside a cedar trunk from Lebanon, a common way for ships returning from the Holy Land to protect sacred objects from storms or pirate attacks.
How to get there: special ferry from Levanto, 2026
- Departure: 7:30pm from Levanto pier
- Return: around 11:00pm
- Price: €30 return, adults / €15 return, children 6-11
- Seats are limited this year, this is a genuinely popular crossing
- Tickets go on sale the morning of 17 August itself, at opening time, at the Levanto ticket office, buy early to avoid the evening queue
The journey is a spectacle in itself: watch the sunset over Punta Mesco, take in the Cinque Terre coastline, and see Corniglia lit up like an enchanted nativity scene. As the ferry approaches Porto Venere, a collective "ohhh" tends to rise from the passengers when the illuminated Church of St Peter and the candlelit cliffs come into view, an image that stays with you.
Why you shouldn't miss it
The Madonna Bianca festival isn't only a religious event, it's a once-a-year celebration combining local history, maritime tradition and unique Ligurian scenery. Whether you're drawn by faith, photography, or simply the beauty of a village lit entirely by candlelight, this evening in Porto Venere is worth planning around.
If you're staying with us, just let us know you'd like to go, we're happy to help you plan the crossing and point you to the ticket office at the right time.
FAQ
When is the Madonna Bianca festival in 2026?
Monday 17 August 2026, as every year, since the date is fixed regardless of the day of the week.
How much does the special ferry from Levanto cost?
€30 return for adults, €15 return for children aged 6 to 11, for the 2026 special evening service.
When should I buy ferry tickets?
Tickets go on sale the morning of 17 August itself, at the Levanto ticket office, from opening time. Seats are limited, so buying early in the day is strongly recommended.
Can I reach Porto Venere from Levanto any other way that evening?
The special evening ferry is by far the easiest option. Reaching Porto Venere by car or public transport on the night of the festival means dealing with heavy traffic and very limited parking.
Further reading: Official ferry timetable and fares: https://blog.navigazionegolfodeipoeti.it/madonna-bianca-2026-17-agosto/
