The Sanctuary of Nostra Signora della Misericordia sits on a hillside about five kilometres north of Savona in the suburb of Vado Ligure, and is the most important pilgrimage church in the province. The Baroque sanctuary was built in the seventeenth century around a miraculous image of the Madonna and has been visited by several popes, including Julius II and Paul VI (who was born in Concesio but spent his childhood summers near Savona).
The building is impressive in its setting on the hillside, with broad steps leading up to a facade flanked by porticoes. The treasury contains a remarkable collection of votive offerings accumulated over five centuries: gold and silver jewellery, paintings, wax models, and embroidered vestments. A visit combines well with the old town of Savona itself.