Diocese of Ventimiglia–San Remo clarifies situation of two churches in Sanremo

The Diocese of Ventimiglia–San Remo clarified that it does not own the All Saints and Black Madonna of Częstochowa churches in Sanremo, which are currently closed to worship. The diocese stated that these buildings belonged to the Ave Maria Family and its associated foundation, both of which are canonically dependent on the Diocese of Pavia.

The properties are now owned by the company Brandsquare s.r.l. On August 25, 2026, the company formally requested the closure of both churches to worship and public access due to safety concerns. The bishop of the Diocese of Ventimiglia–San Remo noted that his authority only extends to the exercise of worship when it is possible to do so. After receiving the request from the owners, the bishop forwarded the matter to the appropriate authorities.

The diocese said it has no legal standing to negotiate with the owners regarding the management or availability of the buildings. Because of this, the diocese cannot provide information on future developments or when the churches might reopen to the faithful.