The Unexploded Bomb of San Lorenzo Cathedral

On February 9, 1941, the British fleet bombarded Genoa (Operation Grog). A 381mm armor-piercing shell was fired at the city.

The Impact

The shell smashed through the roof of the San Lorenzo Cathedral while it was full of people. It hit the floor... and didn't explode.

The Replica

Today, right at the beginning of the right nave, you can touch an exact replica of that shell (the original was disposed of at sea).

• Inscription: "This bomb, launched by the English fleet... burst through the walls of this temple... and fell unexploded here through the intercession of Mary."

It is a chilling reminder of the war and a beloved symbol of divine protection for the locals.