Santa Maria di Nazareth Basilica, Minor basilica in Sestri Levante, Italy

Santa Maria di Nazareth is a minor basilica in central Sestri Levante, next to the town hall. Its interior has three naves divided by square pillars with pilasters supporting round arches, a barrel vault with lunettes, a raised presbytery and a semicircular apse. The 1837–1840 neoclassical facade by Giambattista Prato has a pronaos with Ionic columns and a triangular pediment, flanked by two 17th-century bell towers.

Construction began in 1604 when nobleman Bernardo Bolasco donated the land and architect Giovanni Battista Carbone took charge of the project. The work was finished around twelve years later, creating a lasting landmark for the area.

The 12th-century wooden crucifix known as the "Santo Cristo" came from the earlier parish church of San Nicolò on the Isola. Tradition holds it arrived by sea; in 1616 it was placed in the choir, and after a reputed prodigy in the 1690s it was saved from burning. A procession in its honour is held every 25 years.

The basilica sits on Piazza Giacomo Matteotti in the town center and operates as an active parish church for the Diocese of Chiavari. Visitors should know that regular worship services take place here, so respectful behavior is important when entering.

The 12th-century wooden crucifix, called "Santo Cristo", was moved here in 1616 from San Nicolò on the Isola. Legend holds it was saved from burning when its face opened its eyes; Leo XIII approved its coronation on 2 October 1902, and the rite took place on 13 September 1903 in the presence of Domenico Ferrata.