Oratory of St. Anthony Abbot of the Navy

The Oratory of St. Anthony Abbot of the Marina is located in the historic center of Genoa, in the Magdalena area. This religious building is dedicated to St. Anthony Abbot, one of the most revered saints in the Christian tradition, best known as the protector of animals and the sick.The oratory, which dates back to the 17th century, has a sober but elegant facade, with an arched door surmounted by a rectangular window. The interior is very impressive, with a wooden coffered ceiling decorated with gilded stucco and frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St. Anthony Abbot.The oratory is best known for the presence inside of numerous works of art of great artistic value, including a marble statue depicting St. Anthony Abbot, made by the Genoese sculptor Anton Maria Maragliano in the 18th century, and a painting by Domenico Piola, depicting the Virgin Mary enthroned with the Child and Saints Anthony Abbot, Francis of Assisi and Rocco.In the center is a spectacular late 18th-century sculptural group depicting St. James defeating the Moors, a giant processional chest that was carried on the shoulders of more than 30 men.The Marina Oratory of St. Anthony Abbot is still used for religious celebrations and is one of the most striking and important places of worship in the city of Genoa.