St Paul's miracle
Rome, Rome 00142
+39 6 540 1655
Review © 2007, Wcities
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St Paul's miracle |
1 Via di Acque Salvie Rome, Rome 00142 +39 6 540 1655 |
According to tradition, when St Paul was decapitated his head bounced on the ground three times and where it bounced rose three springs. This is where the 'Abbazia delle Tre Fontane' was founded, which during the Jubilees became a place of pilgrimage where faithful followers received plenary indulgence. The Abbazia is a complex of three churches built where the three fountains emerge. It is set in a tranquil location, surrounded by eucalyptus trees planted in 1868 by Trappist monks who, still famous for the liquor they produce from eucalyptus plants and their excellent chocolate, became proprietors of the land (which had been left since 1600 due to its barrenness). The three churches are the SS Vincenzo and Anastasio, the largest of the three, Santa Maria in Scala Coeli and S. Paolo alle Tre Fontane. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
Republican temples |
Largo Torre Argentina Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
The ancient buildings that can be seen here were discovered during excavation work in the 1920s. The four temples from the Republican era were named A, B, C and D. Temple C is the oldest, Temple A is from the 3rd c. BC, and some of the flooring and mosaics of Temple B are still visible. Though Temple C was built in 100 BC, the mosaic decorations were added during a later period. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James Adams |
 Photo: lilele |
 Photo: Sarah Hansen |
 Photo: Eric Wendelin |
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 Photo: Paul Cammaert  |
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Roman baptistery |
Piazza San Giovanni Florence 50129 +39 55 230 2885 |
Although the Baptistery's precise origins remain unclear, its foundations are known to date back to Roman times. The central doors are stunning works of art, depicting scenes from the Old and New Testament and they have been called "The Gates of Paradise." Lorenzo Ghiberti who worked on them from 1403 to 1424 designed these ornate doors. Inside, the octagonal structure is richly decorated with Roman columns and gilded column heads. The floor's marble inlay features Islamic-style patterns and the apse is decorated with 13th-century mosaics. Coppo di Marcovaldo and Cimabue were among those involved in the cupola's decorative mosaic work. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Cook |
 Photo: Tricia Sexton Kovacs |
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 Photo: Iwona Osmolska |
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 Photo: Ken | www.kenkienow. |
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A model of grandeur and wealth |
Piazza della Consolata Turin 10122 |
Construction on this church began in 1679 under Guarino Guarini. The foundations were laid on the site where the church of Saint Andrea previously stood with its hexagonal presbetery. After the death of Guarini, Juvarra designed the dome upon which Bortoloni's fresco was painted. The 11th century Romanesque tower belonged to the previous church and now sits on the right hand side of the Basilica's facade. The church is decorated with many valuable marbles, most of which were votive offerings. The impressive marble floor is one of the main talking points of this church. Next to the Basilica della Consolata stands a 25 meter high dedicatory column. A statue of the virgin Mary was placed on top in 1835 as a thank you to the Madonna for keeping at bay the dreaded plague which devastated Europe that year. Open: 7am-8:30p Services: Weekdays: 6:15p Weekends: 6a, 7a, 8a, 9a, 10a, 11a, noon, 4:15p, 6:15p, 7:30p Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rosie Barron |
 Photo: effe.bi |
Monumental end of 12th Century Church |
3072 San Polo (Campo dei Frari) Venice 30124 +39 41 522 2637 |
Built in the middle of the 13th century, this church was extended and grew until the 16th century. The church houses paintings by Tiziano, such as 'l'Assunta' and 'La Madonna di ca' Pesaro'. In the side chapel, you'll find Bellini's 'Madonna in Trono'. It also contains the tombs of Tiziano, Canova, Monteverdi, and Francesco Foscari. In spite of it's many historical and artistic treasures, the church's large dimensions make it seem empty. Service is held daily at 9a, 10:30a, noon, and 6:30p. On sunday, mass is held at 6:30p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robb Jones |
 Photo: Lady Lucy |
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Splendid Romanic church |
15 Piazza Sant'Ambrogio Milan, Milan 20123 +39 2 8645 0895 http://santambrogio-basilica.it/ segreteriaparrocchiale@tin.it |
The basilica of St. Ambrogio is the 'symbolic' church of the city which was originally built in 379 on the tombs of St. Gervasio and St. Protasio. A presbytery and a monastery have also been built on this site in the course of centuries, which have seen different constructions up to the end of the twelth century, including the construction of the Canonici bell tower (on the right) and the older one of the Monaci (on the left of the facade). The Romanesque facade is one of the greatest examples of Lombard period architecture. The interior is made up of a long body with three aisles which open on to secondary spaces and extremely interesting chapels. The chapels date back to the later time of the Sforzo dynasty (end of the 15th century and early 16th century). The presbytery and cloisters of the convent are built according to a design by Bramante. Also to be noted are the ciborium, the gold altar and paleochristian mosaics. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Renaud Camus |
 Photo: Alyssa Young |
 Photo: William Babcock |
 Photo: Katey Alatalo |
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Ancient early Christian church |
40 Corso di Porta Ticinese Milan, Milan 20123 +39 2 8940 4129 |
Built outside the Roman city walls, near the ampitheatre from which it has taken most of its salvage materials, this extremely old religious building is of great importance not only for art history but also for all sacred Western Christian architecture. It can be compared to San Vitale of Ravenna and the Aquisgrana cathedral. It went through numerous renovations through the end of the fourth century and the beginning of the fifth century, and today has a sixteenth century style in features such as the dome. There are also features left over from the early Christian era such as the main building, the four towers, some lateral chapels and the foundations formed of enormous blocks taken from other Roman sites. The interior walls were probably covered by marble lower down and by mosaics higher up depicting sacred scenes and saints. On the right there is a stupendous rectangular portal from the Roman era which leads to the chapel of Sant'Aquilino, which is octagonal and holds a tomb with the remains of St. Lorenzo and St. Ippolito. Some say this is an imperial mausoleum. After many interventions in the nineteenth century the church was restored to it's current state between 1937 and 1938. There is a legend that the chapel was built by Galla Placidia, and it is thought that she is buried in the tomb on the right of the entrance. Outside there is a statue which is a copy of the statue of Constantine, who was made Emperor in 313, and gave freedom to the cult of Christianity. Also to be noted is the umbrella shaped dome and fragments of early Christian mosaics. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: GETA.80 |
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Precious mosaics |
Torcello Venice 30100 +39 41 270 2464 |
This is the oldest cathedral of the lagoon, and evidence of the first settlement here. It was built in 639, but has undergone restoration and modification in the 9th, 11th and 14th centuries. The interior is enriched by splendid decorations, with particularly striking mosaics, which were probably made by mosaic makers from Ravenna. The bell tower, which was built in the 11th century, can only be visited by appointment. The view that can be enjoyed from the top is well worth the climb. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert Hutchison |
16th-century architecture |
Sestiere Di Dorsoduro (Madonna della Salute) Venice 30124 +39 41 522 5558 |
Designed by 20-year-old Longhena, this church is a masterpiece of 17th-century architecture. The dominating feature is its octagonal dome, which contains a lantern showing an image of the Madonna; while the smaller dome has a statue of San Marco. The interior consists of a nave, three chapels and a floor made of multicoloured marble with a design of five roses in the centre. The magnificent altar, also designed by Longhena, is particularly ornate. To its right is Tintoretto's 'Le Nozze di Cana', whilst the ceiling of the vestry is adorned with paintings by Tiziano. Mass is held daily at 9a and 11a. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: JOHN JANDOC |
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Church and monastery dedicated to the saint |
Stradone Provolo Antonio Verona 37123 |
This is an important amalgamation made up of the monastery and the church dedicated to the saint, which was built half way through the fifteenth century by Giovanni da Capistrano. It was later restored after damaged sustained during the second world war. The brick façade is enhanced by a porch which is decorated with gothic spires at each extremity. The portal is Renaissance and there is also a cloister adorned by several frescos. The bell-tower too is built out of brick. The inner layout is made up of two naves built in Franciscan style, that is where the main nave is twice the size of the side nave which in turn opens up into several chapels. The flat ceiling, built beneath the tressled roof, is decorated with friezes dating back to 1461. In the presbytery sits a triptych the work of Benaglio which mirrors that by Mantegna which can be found in S. Zeno Maggiore. To the right of the presbytery is the elegant Pellegrini chapel, built in the round by Michele Sanmicheli in 1529. It has been embellished by a caisson dome with a central chandelier as well as three altars all framed by a colonnade. The timigs are as follows: Open: 7a-7:30p Services: 7a, 9am, 6:30p M-F, 4p, 6:30p Sa. Holidays: 8:30a, 10:00a, 11:30a, 6:30p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
Strange rites below the church |
Piazza Gran Madre di Dio Turin 10131 |
The Gran Madre is the true "magic pole" of Turin. As if the talk about the Holy Grail and Nostradamus was not enough, the whispers about the Gran Madre have to be mentioned, "Black masses are held there underground". This is the first thing a Torinese will tell you as he points to the church in front of Piazza Vittorio on the other side of the Po. But how do these rumours start? Mainly from two sources: first, the city is criss-crossed by underground passages that have always been the settings for black masses; second, the church was built in a very particular spot. Since the city was founded, different temples have stood exactly where the Gran Madre can now be admired. It is therefore possible to imagine that the ruins of the previous buildings can be accessed. Put the two together and the result is the rumours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: JimmysMadness |
 Photo: Dimitry Lysenkoni |
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The first testimony of St Petronilla |
280/282 Via delle Sette Chiese Rome, Rome 00147 +39 6 511 0342 http://www.catacombe.domitilla... framiser@domitilla.it |
Domitilla's catacombs are part of a vast funereal complex, a necropolis that contains monuments from the 1st century AD Santa Petronilla and the martyrs Nereo and Achilleo are buried in this area. The bodies of the two martyrs are in the underground basilica, whose entrance bears an inscription in their honour dictated by Pope Damaso. In one of the numerous cubicles there is a painting of matron Veneranda entering paradise accompanied by the martyr Petronilla. This is probably the first document that refers to Petronilla as a martyr; indeed, it dates from the first half of the 4th century. Part of the catacombs is reserved for the tombs of children, and there are images of Love and Psyche depicted as children surrounded by floral decorations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Cyndi Woodward |
 Photo: radiantb |
Popes' Catacombs |
110/126 Via Appia Antica Rome 00179 +39 6 5130 1580 |
The catacombs of San Callisto, known for more than two centuries as the Church of Rome's cemetery, contain the tombs of nine popes buried in the Crypt. They extend over approximately 20km on four floors. Strangely enough, the tomb of Callisto I, martyred in 200 while celebrating a mass in Trastevere, is not to be found here. The most visited sites are obviously the papal 'crypt' and Santa Cecilia's sepulchre. These places were accidentally discovered by the scholar Giovanni Battista de Rossi, who entered a vineyard and noticed two unusual structures; one was converted into a farmhouse and the other was used as a wine shop and contained bottles of wine. Acquiring the land with the consent of Pope Pius IX and starting excavations, he found some relics, which led to the final discovery of the entire complex. Admission is EUR5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sammy Olu Job |
 Photo: Gaila Rae |
 Photo: Dave Hogan |
Castagno's ‘Last Supper' |
Via XXVII Aprile, 1 Florence 50129 |
No doubt inspired by his trip to Venice in 1444, Andrea del Castagno probably painted the Last Supper in the refectory of the former Convent of Sant'Apollonia on his return. The top part of the fresco depicts three scenes from the Passion of Christ: the Crucifixion, Entombment and Resurrection. Now a museum,(opened at the end of the 19th century) the former convent also exhibits other work by the same artist. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marc Beaudoin |
Great works by Pontormo |
Via Senese, 206-208r Florence +39 55 204 9217 |
Both architecturally and artistically unique, this monastery commissioned in 1342 by Niccolò Acciaioli, viceroy of the Kingdom of Naples, was originally home to Carthusian monks. Today Cistercian monks (who have lived here since 1958) give visitors a guided tour of the complex's treasures. The tour winds its way through the monastery, taking in the Chiostrino dei Monaci e il Capitolo, a cloister featuring Albertinelli's 1506 work, "The Crucifixion." Other architectural works, completed in different periods, make up the Certosa complex. Free admission. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Luke Stearns |
16th Century Church |
27 Piazza Municipio Naples 80133 |
The Church of San Giacomo degli Spagnoli was built in 1540 by the viceroy Pedro di Toledo. The facade was undertaken by Fernando Manlio but it was removed in 1825 when the church became part of the Palazzo dei Ministri, now Palazzo San Giacomo,the Town Hall. The interior of the church is structured with three naves with domed ceilings. The central dome marks the sepulchre with allegorical statues of viceroy Pedro di Toledo and Giovanni da Nola. It may actually contain the remains of the viceroy's son, Garcia because Don Pedro died in Florence. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: macayetana |
Renaissance church |
15 Corso Magenta Milan, Milan 20123 |
This church was built in 1503 by Gian Giacomo Dolcebuono. The facade, erected between 1574 and 1581, was completed in 1872 by Angelo Colla. There are three floors inside with nineteeth century frescoes on the sides of the loggias and the naves. The internal facade also includes frescoes by Simone Peterzano. In the third chapel on the left, there is a nun's choirbox made in wood by Gian Giacomo Dolcebuono in 1500 with an extremely fine organ in the centre made in 1554 by Gian Giacomo Antegnani and painted in tempera by Francesco Medici. There are also frescoes on the walls by Bernardino, Aurelio and Giovan Pietro Luini. Do not miss the frescoes by Bernardino Luini painted from 1522 to 1529. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: cpwilson03 |
Near the Frari church |
Ponte San Polo Venice, Veneto 30121 +39 41 522 2637 |
This is so close to the Frari church that it almost seems like the same building. Almost nothing remains of the original 15th century construction, which was sanctioned by the Francescani dei Frari. Giovanni Scalfarotto rebuilt it in the middle of the 18th century. The church houses art by Pordenone, Ricci and Tintoretto. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Isida Karpuzi |
Works of art by Tintoretto |
3825 Campo Santo Stefano Venice 30124 +39 41 522 2362 |
Built by the Hermits in the 13th century, this church has been restored several times; the present appearance is a result of renovations in the 15th century and works done at the beginning of the 20th century. Inside, note the tomb of the last commander in chief of the Republic and the Sepulchral monument to Bartolomeo D'Alviano, as well as the vestry and the cloisters of the old monastery. The vestry houses paintings by Tintoretto and the bell tower is one of the most renowned in Venice. Mass: 10a, 11:30a, 7p Sunday; 7p Saturday and holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: cristiano |
Where a miracle occured |
Piazza Corpus Domini Turin 10122 +39 011 436 6025 |
This is a 17th century church designed by Vittozzi which was built in the place where, in 1453, a miracle occurred. The church was built for the people after a vote taken during the plague in 1598. Inside, the place where the miracle happened is visible; the area is, however, enclosed and there is no access to it. There is a painting by Caravoglia illustrating the episode next to the site. The right altar was made by Juvarra, while the pulpit is by Perucca. On the walls, which are painted by Meyer, are frescoes of Vacca and and of S. Guiseppe in transit by Donnini. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roberto Mastrosimone |
 Photo: benoit kubiak |
 Photo: edward bertozzi |
Home of the Shroud |
Piazza San Giovanni Turin, Turin 10122 +39 (0)11 436 1540 |
San Giovanni Battista, better known as the Duomo, is a Cathedral that was constructed by the will of Cardinal Domenico Della Rovere. It was designed by Bartolomeo del Caprino da Settignano based on the plans of Baccio Pontelli. The architectural style is pure Renaissance, with 3 aisles laid out like a Roman Cross. The façade is constructed in white marble from Carrara, and the entrance has three doors sculpted in wood from C.M. Ugliengo based on a design by Cerutti. This structure is one of the most important Baroque monuments because of the daring architecture of the cupola, the various overlapping arches, and the wonderful effects of light. Perhaps the biggest attraction to this church is Turin's famous Sindone, the shroud said to have once been wrapped around the body of Jesus. There is also a copy of the Leonardo's 'Last Supper' on the centre door, while a vault decorated with a fresco by Fea, Gonin, and Vacca based on Talucchi's original design is also on display. The large altar of the Chapel of the Crucifixion is the work of the Collino brothers. One can also see 'The Crucifixion' by Borelli, two gilded statues by Borelli and Clemente, two statues in marble by Legros representing Saint Cristina and Saint Teresa, the bust of Pius IX by Albertoni, and the tomb of Cardinal Della Rovere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ilpiedeinduescarpe |
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Very superstitious |
Via Duomo Naples, Naples |
The anniversary of the execution of Naples' patron saint and protector San Gennaro is marked at the Duomo and continues with an emotional procession to Santa Chiara. Gennaro (250-305) was the bishop of Pozzuoli, martyred during the reign of Diocletian. During the ceremony, two glass phials of the saint's blood are meant to liquify before the expectant congregation. A notable liquifaction is considered a good omen to the city, while even a partial failure prefigures doom. The phials are thereupon carried in a joyous procession to a nearby convent. Free admission. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fulvio Esposito |
 Photo: srdookhie |
Ex Benedictine monastery |
Lungadige S. Giorgio, 6 Verona 37129 +39 45 834 0232 |
This church is located on the river bank of the same name. It was built as a monastery by the Benedictines in 1046 and was handed over to the Venetian Friars of S. Georgia in alga in 1442. The building of the present-day church was started in 1477 and finished by Sanmicheli, who built the presbytery the dome and the bell tower that was unfinished because of a ban placed by the military. The façade is dressed in white marble and divided in two parts. There is one nave inside which is covered by a vaulted buttressed ceiling, and has four chapels on either side. The church is adorned by several remarkable painting by sixteenth century venetian masters. Those which deserve particular consideration are the "Martyrdom of St. George" by Veronese, the "Baptism of Christ" and the "Pentecoste" by Tintoretto, and hung over the main altar is a copy of Veronese's "Miracolo di S. Barnaba", the original has ended up in the louvres in Paris thanks to Napoleon's pillaging. Opening times: 8:30a-6:30p Services: 8:30a, 6:30p Monday-Friday, 6:30p Saturday. Holidays: 8:30a, 10:30a, 12:00p, 6:30p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michele Gerarduzzi |
 Photo: Ivan Hancock |
Decorative bell tower |
Piazza Duomo Florence 50122 +39 55 230 2885 |
Designed by Giotto, the bell tower to the right of Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral was begun by the artist in 1334 but continued by Andrea Pisano (who modified part of the design) following Giotto's death in 1337. Francesco Talenti finally completed it in 1359. Originally the tower was linked to the Duomo via a passageway situated at the level of the first cornice but this was demolished before 1437. Reliefs carved on the side where the passageway once existed are later works by Luca della Robbia; Andrea Pisano's original stone reliefs can be seen in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo. The concepts of universal order and redemption are recurrent themes; hexagonal tiles on the tower's lower level (now replaced by copies) portray scenes from daily human life whilst diamond-shaped reliefs on the upper level illustrate more ethereal subjects in the form of the Planets, Virtue, Liberal Arts and the Sacraments. There's no lift, but climbing the 414 steps to the top of the 85m tower is well worth the effort! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Charlie Spencer |
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Fragments of the Cross |
12 Piazza di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme Rome, Rome 00185 +39 6 701 4769 http://www.basilicasantacroce.it/ parrocchia@basilicasantacroce.it |
This church was founded by St Helen, mother of the Emperor Constantine, when she returned from the Holy Land with the remains of the Cross on which Christ was crucified. It was built in the atrium of the queen's palace, which was divided into three naves, with an apse added. The basilica is on one of the seven routes of pilgrimage. Over the centuries it has undergone various renovations: on the inside, where a series of mosaics (many times restored) were placed; and on the outside, where a convent was built. The tomb of Cardinal Francisco Quinones, an example of Sansovino's Roman period, is at the centre of the apse. The church you see nowadays dates from the changes ordered by Pope Benedict XIV in the early 18th century. The interior conserves the three naves, but only part of the original granite columns remains. The façade was built by Domenico Gregorini and Pietro Passalacqua and can be considered as one of the last examples of Roman Baroque. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: per.aasen |
The cathedral of Naples |
Via Duomo Naples 80138 +39 81 44 9097 http://www.duomodinapoli.it/ |
Built in the Gothic style at the end of the 13th century upon the wish of Carlo II d'Angio, the cathedral sits on the site of the old cathedral Stafania. It has been subjected to numerous restoration works in the subsequent centuries, and the facade has been restructured significantly during the restoration work carried out following the earthquake of 1349. The three portals of Antonio Baboccio have survived from the original structure. Under the second arcade on the left side of the central nave there is a baptismal font which is made of an Egyptian basalt basin decorated with Bacchic masks and on the upper parts from 1618 there is multi-coloured marble. The 18th century organs and the episcopal throne are under the last two arcades of the central nave. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: delaurus |
 Photo: Brian M. Dreyer |
Venetian Political History adorned by Veronese Paintings |
Inside the Doge's Palace San Marco 1, Entrance for the public: Porta del Frumento, Piazzetta San Marco Venice 30124 +39 0412 715 911 http://www.museicivicivenezian... mkt.musei@comune.venezia.it |
The Institutional Chambers (Le Sale Istituzionali) are the magnificent rooms where Venice's political and judicial organs resided for centuries. The most popular rooms include the Room of the Great Council, the Room of the Senate, the Room of the Collegio and the Room of the Council of Ten. All of them are adorned by the work of prominent artists of the late Renaissance period (15th and 16th century): Titian, Tintoretto and Veronese. Your tour begins on the second floor with the Atrium Square where you can see Veronese's Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden as well as Tintoretto's ceilings. Then you enter the Room of Four Doors with outstanding pieces like Titian's portrait of Doge Antonio Grimani. The tour continues with the Antechamber to the Hall of the Full Council, the waiting room for ambassadors and delegations. The central fresco features Veronese's famous Rape of Europe. Continue to the Council Chamber to reach the Senate Chamber where you can admire the wall clock in addition to further masterpieces from Veronese and Tintoretto on the ceilings. Down one floor, you finally arrive to the world-renowned and majestic Chamber of The Great Council. Considered the largest room in Europe (with the largest oil painting) and dedicated to the most important political body in Venetian Republic, it emphasizes Veronese dramatic and colorful Manerist Style in the Triumph of Venice. Admire also Tintoretto's portraits of the 76 Doges and Paradiso. At the end of your course, you'll reach the Bridge of Sighs linking the Institutional Chambers to the Prisons. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Trish |
 Photo: Tim Harris |
 Photo: Melissa Batson |
The church of Madonna |
195 Corso Casale Turin 10132 +39 11 89 0448 |
This church, (a bit out of the centre, but popular with the Torinesi), has a large, votive stake. The image of the Madonna was erected on this as a thank you for a miraculous event which took place here on 29th April 1644. The church was opened to the public in 1645, the year after the works began. Particularly distinctive are eight ovals, the work of Albornoz, placed on the cornice. These depict the miracle, which led to the building of the church and others which are always attributed to the protective presence of the Madonna. Open: 6:30a-9p. Services: Weekdays: 6:30p, Weekends: 8:30a, 10:30a, 11.30a, 6p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fabrizio |
Cangrande's spulchre |
Via Arche Scaligere, 3 Verona 37121 +39 45 59 5508 |
This is one of the first examples of Veronese Romanesque architecture. It was founded in the seventh century but was restored and rebuilt several times until it was consecrated for the final time in 1185 by Gotifredo, the patriarch of Aquileia. There is a tomb or sepulchre over the door of Cangrande della Scala, the patron known for being mentioned by Dante, who had been exiled from his court. The urn is supported by dogs holding the coat of arms between their paws. The middle has a "Pieta'" upon it, while the sides are adorned with an "Annunciation". Each corner represents four cities and four conquests. The statue of Cangrande is lying down and is covered by a canopy, the original of which is on display in the courtyard of Castelvecchio. The inside is divided in three naves flanked by colonnades with elevated arches, ending up in three apses. Open: 8a-6p Services: 9a, 4p, 6p Monday-Friday, 4p, 6p Saturday. Holidays: 8a, 10a, 4p, 6p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fernando Blesa |
 Photo: Giorgio Nicodemo |
Handiwork of Michelangelo |
Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini Florence, FI +39 55 29 4883 |
The Medici Chapels are historical labors that are as grand in their own way as are the pyramids of Egypt. Started in 1605, these shrines were under construction for centuries. Eighty five years earlier Michelangelo was tasked to design and build the New Sacristy from one of the Medici cardinals Giulio de' Medici, who is remember in history as Pope Clement VII. Typical of a spiritual leader he was obsessed with the here-after and the creation of these intricate chapels testifies to that. Of artistic note are actual charcoal sketches by Michelangelo's own hand. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jenni Jacobus |
 Photo: Kris Long |
 Photo: Josimar Dominguez |
 Photo: Angie Reddick |
 Photo: art director |
Medieval grain market |
Via Calzaiuoli, 15 Florence 50122 |
Compared to other religious buildings from the same period, this fourteenth-century church is somewhat unusual in design. Rectangular in shape, with two naves, it does look more like a grain store, which was in fact how it started out when first built by Francesco Talenti, Neri di Fioravente and Benci di Cione. After the previous grain store built in 1290 by Arnolfo di Cambio was destroyed, its replacement had to be built on a larger scale, enabling it to contain a marketplace. Arches were later closed off and the structure acquired two floors that were used for shops. At the end of the 15th century the building was converted into a church and became a powerful symbol for the city guilds, which met the cost of decorating the niches situated along the outside walls. For this they commissioned several of the most talented artists of the day to produce magnificent pieces of artwork, including Lorenzo Ghiberti, Donatello, Giambologna, Luca della Robbia and Verrochio. Of particular note are the copies of Donatello's statue of San Giorgio and bas-relief, whose originals are now in the Bargello museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Felix Tandler |
 Photo: mai_luo2002 |
 Photo: Iuna Noferini |
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Dining On-The-Go |
Corso Turati 19/6 Turin 10128 +39 011 576 4733-750 http://www.comune.torino.it/gt... |
With all the wonderful food and historic sights Turin has to offer, it can be hard to fit everything into one visit. However, Ristocolor provides busy travellers with a new way to dine- onboard a historic tram! Take a ride through the streets and past historic monuments while enjoying each dish specializing in the delicious Piedmont cuisine. The tram has been completely renovated to fit up to 32 passengers, with colorful decorations both inside and out. It is a great way to fit in even more of what the city has to offer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: MAX 2006 |
Medieval cloister amongst the skyscrapers |
Vico Dritto Ponticello Via Dante Genoa 16121 |
The remains of an important Benedictine convent dating back to the twelfth century can be found near the Dove house. They are only separated from the car traffic by a few olive trees. The remains were moved to this site after the convent was demolished in 1904 and they have recently been restored. They represent the most interesting medieval cloister of the city. There are coupled columns with elegant capitals which have been sculpted with very rich iconographic motifs. They contain stories from the bible (Adam and Eve, the three kings), work scenes, animals, imaginary creatures and more simple floral designs. There is a memorial stone which states that when the demolition was underway, they found an ancient Roman necropolis. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jones9999999 |
 Photo: Antonio Manchado |
Ancient Romanic church |
1 Piazza Sant'Eustorgio Milan, Milan 20122 +39 2 5810 1583 http://www.santeustorgio.it/ parrocchia@santeustorgio.it |
Outside the medieval city walls, along the road that runs from the Pusteria to Porta Ticinese, there is the church and monastery of S. Eustorgio. Originally the surrounding area was not built up, but was agricultural land, then it was occupied by Dominicans and is now surrounded by a public park area. The building has undergone various modifications from when it was first built (some say in the 4th century, others say the 5th), but still conserves it's Roman form due to it's reconstruction in the late 11th century. The cross vaults of the central nave are notably wide leaning on pillars, while the right nave opens onto a series of chapels which are part of the holy places of the adjoining cemetery. Notice in particular the Brivio chapel, the first from 1484, built in Florentine renaissance style which has been reinterpreted by local artists and the Torelli, the second built in 1424, which is in gothic lombard style. Beyond the pseudocrypt a series of spaces lead to the Portinari chapel. This is a true expression of renaissance lombard style, built from 1422 to 1466 by Pigello Portinari, a Florentine banker, as a chapel for the nobility. The chapel boasts frescoes by Vincenzo Foppa, to whom recent studies also attribute the architectural planning. The chapel is a cube shape with a hemispheric dome with significant detail. The adjoining monastery, much renovated over time, is made up of two 17th century cloisters which are now the property of the Diocesan museum who use them as temporary exhibition spaces. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rino Palma(morimur29 |
 Photo: Carla |
Jesuit churc in the San Fedele square |
Piazza San Fedele Milan, Milan 20121 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Designed by the architect Pellegrino Tibaldi, this is one of the most interesting and important Lombard monuments of the late sixteenth century. Built by the Jesuit order in 1569, the church has a single nave, divided into two spans with columns in a style reminiscent of the halls of roman baths. Despite the unfinished original plan (the presbytery was built later by Richini), the building has a notably coherent form. The external facade is a masterpiece of different architectural styles which are brought to their maximum expressive capacity here. The altars of the side naves are of particular artistic interest. At the back of the church on the right is a small chapel with a part of a fresco from the thirteenth century showing a Madonna with child called 'Madonna delle Ballerine' to which people used to come to place floral tributes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: site.AIACE |
One of the oldest churches in Verona |
Via della Pieve, 1 Sant Ambrogio di Valpolicella 37010 |
The Valpolicella is a beautiful valley that stretches out from the North of Verona. The presence of small, pretty parish churches called pieve, which create a very evocative atmosphere, make it particularly attractive to tourists. Amongst all these churches, the Church of S. Giorgio in S. Giorgio Inganapoltròn around 18 kilometres from Verona is especially worth a mention. The place's curious name derives from the fact that the town seems very near by, but in fact is quite far off, above all if you want to get there on foot. The pieve of S. Giorgio is one of the oldest in the whole region, and dates back to around the 11th-12th centuries. It is Romanesque in style and has three East facing apses, as well as some beautiful 13th century cloisters next to it. The bell tower has mullioned windows with two lights. Inside the church there is a baptismal font again dating back to the 11th century.The most prestigious piece in the church is a Lombard ciborium, that is to say a baldachin tabernacle placed on the main altar, which rests on four columns made in 712 by Maestro Orso under Liuntprando. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea Crestani |
 Photo: Andrea Gianotti |
A pilgrim church |
Piazza della Commenda, 1 Genoa 16126 |
This church is connected to the neighbouring Pre' insignia building. Building work was begun in 1180 with pre-Lamica masters, a fact which is commemorated by a plaque on the wall. It has recently been restored by the Ministry for cultural heritage. There are two churches, one of which stands over the other which are mutually independent from one another. The smaller church, with three naves, occupies the central nave of the larger one. This has a splendid Romanesque belltower with three levels of three-light windows and a pyramid-shaped spire. There has been an entrance in the apse of the larger church since 1731 when the Knights of the Order of Malta allowed entry to the more civilised members of the public. The inner church is intimate and quiet. It contains the remains of an important series of frescoes that have recently been brought to light. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Carla |
Genoa's Cathedral |
Piazza San Lorenzo Genoa 16123 |
This church, dedicated to S. Lorenzo became the city's cathedral in the 10th century AD after it was deemed to be safer than the more primitive S. Siro cathedral, as it was situated inside the fortified walls built in 864 AD. 1099 saw the start of the construction of a better-suited building. The apsidal part was consecrated by the pope Gelasio II in 1118, while 1160 saw the building of the lateral walls with their beautiful sculpted portals dedicated to S. Giovanni and S. Gottardo. The three black and white striped marble portals on the front are sculpted with stories of the Virgin Mary and are similar to those on the Cathedrals in Chartres and Rouen. They can be traced back to 13th century Franco Norman craftsmanship, providing the most interesting example of the French gothic style in Italy. The construction of the cathedral, which can be said to have lasted for centuries thanks to artists from Pisa, Lombardy and France, gave rise to an interesting mixture of styles, especially visible in the black and white facade. The statue of a saint with a sundial called the Arrotino is French gothic, the column-bearing lions are nineteenth century, the rose window is 15th century, the two towers, one of which is unfinished are 15th and 16th century. The inside is made up of three naves flanked by columns and reclaimed roman capitals, and owes its current appearance to the refurbishment carried out after the fire in 1296. During the refurbishment props were used to rebuild the lower part using pointed gothic arches, maintaining the overhead round Roman arches. In general, however, the church is mostly characterised by the bare medieval style enhanced by the lack of wall decoration, except for the important fresco in the lunette on the internal front wall (Giudizio Universale, fourteenth century). The largest of the side altars is dedicated to S. John the Baptist, patron of the city, whose relics are thought to have been brought to Genoa after the crusades and now sit in a valuable 14th century urn made by Norman craftsmen. The fifteenth century sculptor G. Gaggini was very involved in the adorning of the chapel with several statues of Sansovino. The Lercari chapel at the end of the left-hand nave dates back to the 16th century. The frescoes were done by L. Cambiaso and G.B. Castello il Bergamasco. The sober dome by G. Alessi and the presbytery are also from the same period. The bronzes on the altar in the presbytery are interesting. Everyone from Genoa knows the story of the bomb that sits at the beginning of the right hand nave. On 9th February 1941 it hit the cathedral destroying part of the casing, but remaining miraculously unexploded. The sacristy leads to the valuable Museo del Tesoro di S.Lorenzo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Olivier Bacquet |
 Photo: Perri |
 Photo: Claudine Guertin |
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Religious core of the city |
Piazza Duomo, 13 Verona 37121 |
This church was erected on the site of the pre-existing Christian church after the earthquake of 1117. In 1444, major renovation and enlargement work took place on the Roman building, as promised by the 'Scaligeri' in the last years of their rule. Buttresses were added, as well as chapels along the building's perimeter. The work was completed at the end of the sixteenth century, when Renaissance features were added. The influences of various different periods are visible on the façade of the building: the monumental Roman gateway with double arches by Nicolò (1139), the Gothic elements and the final, Renaissance additions. The interior is divided into three naves with pillasters in red marble, holding up ogival arches and cross-vaults with four chapels on each side and a presbytery closed off by a semi-circular door in multi-coloured marble , the work of Michele Sanmichelo in 1534. On the wall of the first chapel on the left is the altar-piece with Tiziano's 'Assumption' (1530), Liberale da Verona's 'Epiphany' and Giambettino Cignaroli's 'Transfiguration'. Services: 7a, 8a, 9a, 6:30p Monday-Friday, 4p, 6:30p Saturday, 7:30a, 9:30a, 11a, 12:30p, 6:30p Sunday and public holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: aGudRun |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
Bramante and Leonardo in Milan (Last Supper) |
2 Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie Milan 20123 |
Commissioned by Ludovico di Moro and designed by Guiniforte Solari, this building was intended as a mausoleum for the Sforzesco dynasty, in which the remains of the duke and his wife, Beatrice d'Este, as well as others connected with the family, were to be laid to rest. The adjoining Dominican convent's cloister and sacristy were later renovated by Bramante. The refectory walls are home to Leonardo da Vinci's(1452-1519) Last Supper. Bramante's façade is of particular interest as is the gallery's terracotta ornamentation, which became one of the dominant motifs in northern Italian Renaissance architecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mortommy |
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The church of the Doria family |
Piazza S.Matteo Genova 16123 +39 10 247 4362 |
The church was founded in 1125 by Martino Doria. Renovated in a Romanesque-Gothic style in 1278, it represents one of the most interesting noble churches in Genova. It is the centre-point of the Doria district; this collection of church, cloisters, houses and squares was where the noble family controlled the city's fate. The church has a black and white façade with carvings showing the feats achieved by family members. The church was renovated inside during the sixteenth century by Admiral Andrea Doria, who wanted to make it his personal mausoleum. The church has rich decoration inside. G.B.Castello, "the Bergamasco" and L.Cambiaso both contributed to the frescoes. The crypt is entirely covered with very valuable stuccoes by Montorsoli and Cosini. An interesting detail is that the adjacent cloister (which you can entere by making a small donation to the sexton) was built by a Venetian artist who had been captured during one of the frequent battles with Venice. They took advantage of his talents whilst he was in prison. Open: 9am-midday, 3pm-6.30pm Mon-Sun. Service times: Daily 5.30pm; Sundays and church holidays 11am, 5.30pm Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: fabrizio.binello |
 Photo: Bruno C. |
 Photo: mara.cristiani |
Fifteen-century church |
San Pietro in Gessate Milan, Milan 20122 |
Seat of the Benedictines in 1344, this church was built to how it is today in 1476. Attributed to the architects Guiniforte and Pietro Antonio Solari, the building is a result of a unitary plan. In a Latin cross shape with three naves open out to a chapel for nobility in a polygonal form, a distinctive mark of Solari workmanship. The intervention of private commissions was fundamental for the necessay funds for building. The Grifi chapel is one of the more memorable patronised chapels, on the left of the transept, decorated from 1487 by the painters Bernardino Zenale and Donato Montorfano. The restored facade is by the architect Brioschiin 1912 with a notable baroque presence, the only surviving element of the old decor. There is a special synchronicity of architectural elements and pictorial decoration, one of the few surviving examples of fifteenth century lombard style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alice Twain |
The main cathedral of the city |
Piazza San Siro Genoa 16124 |
Built in the 4th century as the first cathedral of the city, it was dedicated to the 12 apostles. In 1008 it became a Benedictine Abbey and the current architectural layout dates from the beginning of the 17th century, after a fire in 1580 destroyed a large part of the structure. The neoclassical facade houses a church with three naves, frescoed vaults and stucco which is the work of various members of the Carlone family, including Taddeo, Giuseppe, Tommaso and Giovanni Battista. As well as works by D. Fiasella, G. De Ferrari and D. Piola, there is also the beautiful painting of the Annunciation here by O. Gentileschi and the splendid main altar, in black and bronze marble, which is a baroque masterpiece by Pierre Puget in 1670. The Roman belltower of the cathedral can be spotted in old pictures of Genoa, but it was pulled down as it was deemed to be unstable after the collapse of the belltower of S. Marco in Venice in 1904 and was unfortunately never rebuilt. The old, adjacent cloister, can not be visited and was transformed at the beginning of the century into public baths and sauna, according to art nouveau style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Amaretto77 |
 Photo: Antonio Manchado |
Basilica and sanctuary |
Piazza SS. Annunziata Florence 50122 +39 55 239 8034 |
This basilica is also a sanctuary because one of its chapels contains the picture of the Annunciation. According to legend, this appeared on the wall at the time of the Virgin Mary. The devotional chapel was decorated with precious marble columns through the wishes of Piero di Cosimo, the father of Lorenzo the Magnificent. The church is entered from the Piassa SS.Annunziata. At the entrance there is a portico which dates back to the seventeenth century. Past the portico, one enters the Chiostrino dei Voti which is frescoed by Masters of the Florentine school over two centuries: Andrea del Sarto, Franciabigio, Pontormo and Rosso Fiorentino. The "Chiostro dei Morti" (Cloister of the Dead) can also be visited on request. There one can see the important fresco by Andrea del Sarto: the "Madonna del Sacco" (1525). Services: 7a, 8a, 9a, 10a, 11a, noon, 1p 6pm, 9pm Sun. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jordan Schwartz |
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Romanesque Basilica |
Borgo SS. Apostoli, 3 Florence 50123 +39 55 29 0642 |
The architectural history of this church began in the Romanesque period in the 11th century. The foundation of the Basilica is maintained on the inside, where the space is arranged into three naves divided by green marble columns from Prato, typical of decorative Florentine architecture, and bare columns which come from the ancient Roman baths of the first century. In the side chapels (15th-16th century) the late baroque decorations are still visible, whilst at the far end of the left nave there is the "Sepulchral Monument of Oddo Altoviti" which was made at the beginning of the sixteenth century by Benedetto da Rovezzano. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Happily Unmarried Ev |
 Photo: Marc Beaudoin |
Church of the barbers and surgeons |
Vico S.Cosimo, 16 Genoa 16123 |
This 16th century church is probably the one Romanesque Genoese church, which has been well maintained. It has preserved its three shallow apses, the tower similar to that at Chiesa di S.Donato, and the black and white columns. To the side of the portal made from Roman materials, on the façade, is a tomb with a pointed arch and small columns called the Barisone, in memory of the famous man who was a spy in the war between Genoa and Pisa. When his treachery was found out, he was arrested and put under house arrest in the palace adjacent to the church, where he later died. The sepulchre for Barbers and surgeons is particularly interesting. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Brown |
Church behind the two towers |
Strada Maggiore 4 Bologna 40125 |
At the Piazza di Porta Raveganana, dominated by the two famous towers, at the beginning of Strada Maggiore, you come across this church. It is erected on the site of the former priory of which now only a sandstone portal, sculpted by Andrea da Formigine, remains. Three naves separate the interior decorated by famous works: Madonna with child by Guido Reni, Visions of San Gaetano by Angelo Michele Colonna, Christ's Nativity by A Burrini and M. Chiarini. The cupola has beautiful frescoes, by Antonio Rolli, dating from the 17th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marilena |
 Photo: Mikaela Cortopassi |
Church and peculiar chappel with ossuary |
2 Verziere Milan, Milan 20122 +39 (0)2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio turistico) |
This church, of medieval origin, has been rebuilt many times. Finished in the 18th century to resemble a civil villa and mounted by an octagonal lantern. There is an annex of a chapel war memorial on a square plan which contains thousands of human remains which are said to have belonged to victims of the plague of 1630, or to Milanese who were massacred by plundering goths. The most likely hypothesis is that these are the bodies of the deceased of the adjoining Hospital. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: André garçon |
Church alongside the canal |
Via San Cristoforo sul Naviglio Milan, Milan 20144 |
In a suburban area, along the left bank of the canal, is the church of S. Cristoforo. This building is formed by two adjoining constructions which are still identifiable. The one on the left, dates possibly from the end of the 7th century and the ducal chapel was added to it in 1398 at the request of the duke on the time of a long famine. This is one of the most typical examples of Gothic Lombard style both inside and outside. The paintings from the fifteenth and early sixteenth century are particularly interesting. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: www.bygooglemaps.com |
Unique gothic construction |
1 Via San Domenico Turin 10122 |
Built between 1227 and 1300, this is the only gothic building in the city of Turin. In 1904 D'Andrade was given the responsibility of overseeing the restoration as the Church had been rather weighed down by decorations and baroque superstructures during the 17th and 18th centuries. The rather simple architectural structure is perfectly balanced. The interior with three naves is enriched by fourteenth century frescoes of the Chapel of Madonna delle Grazie. This church was also the seat of the Convent of the Domenicani which can also be entered from the Church of San Domenico. Open: 7a-7p Services: Weekdays: 6p Weekends: 10a, 6p Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ani-sama |
Large and wealthy convent complex |
8a Piazza San Domenico Maggiore Naples 80134 |
The church was built in 1283 by King Charles II of Angevin, and is part of the largest and wealthiest group of convent buildings in the city. It is the spiritual home of the Dominican Order in the Kingdom of Naples, as well as the seat of the Parthenopean University. In the past, religious people lived in an old convent in the area. The 'San Michele Arcangelo a Morfisa' church (probably built in the tenth century, eventually to become the side chapel of a new edifice) bears witness to its existence. The main entrance to the church can be found in the courtyard of a palace in the Vico San Domenico. There is a beautiful fourteenth century portal with jambs in various styles, decorated with precious tesseras in polychrome marble, as well as two Renaissance chapels and an eighteenth century pronaos beneath a nineteenth century mullioned window. You will find a gamut of styles, representing successive periods of history and architecture. A Baroque bell can be found on the façade. The polygonal apse juts out onto the Piazza San Domenica. Upon entering through a marble portal created in the sixteenth century, you will be able to walk straight up to the altar - on the left you will see a flight of stairs at the entrance to the old nucleus of the San Michele Arcangelo a Morfisa church. The interior of the church is typical of a Gothic church built during the Angevin period in Naples: three naves with a transept and a polygonal apse. Travaglini's nineteenth century renovations - golden stucco on the old framework - altered the look of the church. Along the right nave of the church runs the third chapel - the 'Brancaccio Chapel' in which hang frescoes by Pietro Cavallini - a Roman artist of the Giotto School. From the seventh chapel on the right, you will be able to reach the large chapel of the crucifix. Along the left wall, is the 'Carafa Chapel' in which you will see a precious wooden crib. From the right nave, it is possible to get to the sacristy (decorated by Francesco Solimena in 1709), where there are 45 sepulchral arches containing the remains of various personages connected with the House of Aragon. From the right arm of the transept, you will reach the old 'San Michele Arcangelo a Morfisa' church with its numerous sepulchral monuments dating back to the fifteenth, sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The main altar - inlaid in marble by Cosimo Fanzago - is set in a polygonal space, in typical Baroque style. The lions crouching at the sides of the balusters are by Tino da Camaino. A beautiful painting by Luca Giordano (1680-1685) can be found in the Muscettola family chapel dedicated to St. Joseph and the Christ Child. In 1272, Thomas Aquinas founded the Faculty of Theology in the convent. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: DoctorG2007 |
 Photo: Anna |
 Photo: ju maciel |
Church with works of art |
Piazza S. Felice Florence 50125 +39 55 22 1706 |
It seems that the creator of this fifteenth century facade was Michelozzo but that the structure of the church dates back to the roman period. Inside, the first part of the church is divided into three naves whilst the second has been restored so that the roof trusses are visible as they would have been in the fourteeth and fifteeth centuries. At the far end, in another area designed by Michelozzo, there is the main Chapel in which a wooden crucifix painted by Giotto and his workshop (1307-08) is displayed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Astrid Malachewitz |
The Franciscans in Bologna |
Piazza Malpighi 9 Bologna 40122 |
In 1236, the Franciscans began building this beautiful Basilica. The façade overlooking Piazza San Francesco has retained its Romanic-Gothic features with a single spire. The portal is adorned with 18th century features. Inside, the visitor will find the best of Italian Gothic albeit with a modicum of French influence - it was the first to be built with three naves jutting out from six sections at the top of high octagonal pillars. Among the works of art kept in this holy building, there is an extraordinary altar piece from the late 1300s by Jacobello and Pier Paolo delle Masegne. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: micurs |
 Photo: Charles_in_troubles |
Papal Basilica |
Piazza Plebiscito Naples 80132 |
The Church of San Francesco di Paola was built as an offering from Ferdinando di Borbone after his return from exile in Palermo during the french occupation. The project was drawn up by the architect Pietro Bianchi in 1816. The church, inaugurated in 1816, was given the title of Papal Basilica by Pope Gregory XVI. The Basilica itself is preceded by a pronaos comprising of ten columns, which hold up a tympanum at the top of which a statue of Religion rests. The church is circular in shape and it is covered by an impressive dome, which is styled on the Pantheon, with lacunars and rosettes carved from limestone. The internal perimeter is ringed by 32 fluted columns with Corinthian capitols through which six side chapels can be seen. On the walls of the apse one can enjoy a painting by Vincenzo Camuccini depicting San Francesco di Paola tending to young Alessandro. It was painted in 1830 at the request of Francesco I. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pablo Migone |
 Photo: Tarek Elghawaby |
 Photo: Luca Straniero |
 Photo: Alessandro Pernice |
Seventeenth century church by Cerruti |
Piazza di Cestello Florence 50124 +39 55 21 5816 |
The cupola of the Cestello stands out in the panorama of the Oltrarno and its bare, unfinished facade is visible from the bank on the other side of the Arno river. The church was built by the architect Cerutti at the end of the seventeenth century and completed with the cupola of Antonio M.Ferri. The church is planned in the shape of a Latin cross with a single nave upon which there are chapels decorated with stucco and frescoes from the eighteenth century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Katey Alatalo |
 Photo: pracucci |
 Photo: Michael Dowling |
Beautiful Church with Romanesque facade |
Piazza Rossini Bologna 40126 +39 51 22 5970 |
This church was built by the Augustine Fathers in 1267. In the 15th century the Bentivoglio chapel was added, and was probably designed by Pago di Lapo Portigiani. The church's façade is monocuspidate, and has a Romanesque portal decorated with carved lions which is crowned by a niche containing a statue of Saint Giacomo. To the sides of the entrance you can see four mortuary niches. There is a beautiful renaissance style portico which runs along the lefthand side of the church. The portico was built in 1477 on the request of Giovanni Bentivoglio. San Giacomo Maggiore's Basilica contains some of the most important masterpieces of Bolognese art by famous artists such as Fontana, Laureti, Ludovico Carracci, Gaetano Gandolfi, Passarotti, Cesi, Mazza, etc.. Even Goethe became speechless when he saw this magnificent place of worship . Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: copetan |
Cathedral of medieval origins |
Piazza della Cattedrale, 3 Trieste 34121 +39 40 31 0500 |
Just a 20-minute walk from Piazza dell'Unita d'Italia, this cathedral is a symbol of Trieste. It was built in 1300, when two, pre-existing basilicas were merged, forming the vast, central nave. There is a beautiful sandstone facade and a bell tower that was built in 1337. There are Byzantine mosaics in the enchanting interiors and a 13th century chapel enclosed in a rich Baroque railing. The right nave is the chapel dedicated to San Giusto, and the Bourbons of Spain are buried in the crypt. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alessandra Del Gos |
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Medici family church |
Piazza San Lorenzo Florence 50123 +39 55 21 6634 |
Encompassing the Biblioteca Laurenziana (Italy's most important library) and the Cappelle Medicee, this basilica is a testimony to the political power and patronage of the Medici family. Its origins date back to 393 when St. Ambrose consecrated it in memory of the martyrdom of St. Lawrence. Adorned with fabulous artwork, including the marble Altar of the Sacrament carved by Desiderio da Settignano, the basilica features major artists of the period, including Donatello, Verrocchio, Filippo Lippi and Brunelleschi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: juliew325 |
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 Photo: Scott G. Brooks |
Built for a vow |
4 Via Palazzo di Città Turin 10122 +39 11 53 7640 / +39 11 43 6529 |
This church was built by the will of Emanuele Filiberto, who had promised to build a church in a vow made before the battle of San Quintino, won by the king, which took place on the 10th August, the day which is dedicated to San Lorenzo. The church was built according to a plan by Guarino Guarini between 1667 and 1680. It is a perfect expression of seventeenth century baroque style both in the design of its dome and in the interior decorations. Open: 7a-7:30p M-F, 7a-10p Sa-Su Services: Weekdays: 6:30p Weekends: 9:30a, 11a, noon, 6:30p, 9p Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: brucaliffo |
 Photo: DarioR |
 Photo: ilenia rubino |
 Photo: Salvatore |
 Photo: Pierpaolo Veglio |
 Photo: Polluce |
Cosimo the Elder's monastery |
Piazza San Marco, 1 Florence 50121 +39 55 238 8608 |
This complex was enlarged in 1437 by Michelozzo to accommodate Dominican monks who had moved to the city from nearby Fiesole. Traces of frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries remain today, although some parts of the structure were modified during the Counter-Reformation and the façade was finally completed in the 17th century. One of the oldest pieces of artwork on display is the crucifix by an artist whose style is similar to Andrea Orcagna's, while at the far end of the church on the main altar is Fra'Angelico's "Crucifix." Admission is EUR4.15. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kaii Wang |
Church containing some magnificent works of art |
Via Oberdan 25 Bologna 40024 +39 51 23 4671 |
This 13th century church has a façade which was redesigned by Giuseppe Modenesi in 1879. The church's interior is Gothic in style and has three naves with ogival arches and vaults in the form of a cross. The works of art include frescoes by Lippo di Dalmasio, Amico Aspertini, Guercino, Bigari, S. Girolamo by Ludovico Carracci, San Carlo e Santi by Tiariani and Vergine in trono col Bambino by Francesco Francia. The chapel which is located at the far end of the right hand nave is very attractive, and is in a Baroque style which was restructured by Torreggiani in 1753. The first chapel on the left hand nave contains the remains of a fresco entitled Adorazione dei Magi which was painted by Paolo Uccello in 1437. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alessandro ventura |
 Photo: Alessandro ventura |
Romanesque church on the Florentine hills |
Via Monte alle Croci, 34 Florence 50125 +39 55 234 2768 |
San Miniato is one of the city's most striking examples of Florentine Romanesque architecture, characterized by its bicoloured (white and green) marble façade. The altar, pulpit and transept recess feature fine marble décor, while the floor, in keeping with the Romanesque style, is decorated with symbolic ornamental motifs. Halfway along the nave on the left is another chapel, the 'Cappella del cardinale Portogallo', which was designed by one of Brunelleschi's pupils, its architectural and decorative style resembles one of Brunelleschi's first creations, the 'Sagrestia Vecchia' (Old Sacristy), which can be seen in San Lorenzo church. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kirsten and Blake |
 Photo: Filipe Ribeiro |
 Photo: Per John |
 Photo: Ximena del Campo |
 Photo: David García Pérez |
 Photo: Rebecca Davies |
 Photo: orangeek |
 Photo: Lisa V. Foley |
 Photo: giovanni pierantoni |
 Photo: Rob Kints |
 Photo: oRi0n |
 Photo: Sonia Claus |
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Heritage Building |
Via San Niccolò Florence |
The building already existed in the Romanesque period and was then restructured into a gothic style and ultimately was rearranged by Giorgio Vasari (16th century). Following the restoration after the flood of 1966, remains of frescoes from the fifteenth century were found. Other decorations and the altars inside all belong to the 17th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jason K. |
 Photo: Simone Pratesi |
 Photo: Mattias Nordgren |
 Photo: Johnny Ow |
 Photo: 1la |
Recreating the original |
186 Via Ostiense Rome 00146 +39 (0)6 541 0341 |
This church, all but the apse totally destroyed by fire, has been reconstructed to look exactly as it did in the 4th century. The Roman artist Pietro Cavallini helped with the 13th century restoration of some frescoes and the mosaic decorating the façade, which unfortunately have not survived. The library and gallery annexed to the basilica complex are well worth visiting. The library holds an extremely rich collection of original manuscripts, including the Bible that belonged to Charles the Bald, a magnificent original illuminated manuscript from the 9th century. The gallery has precious 15th century panels and two frescoes transferred onto canvas by Giovanni Lanfranco. This church is also one of the jubilee basilicas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Donna ortucchiensis |
 Photo: frangimus |
 Photo: jhuyr |
 Photo: gabriele venditti |
 Photo: Tiffany L. Bruce |
 Photo: shinobi_no_sho |
 Photo: Paolo Santilli |
 Photo: Gregorio Parvus |
 Photo: sergio |
 Photo: Raffaele Birnardo |
 Photo: Mik Ayre |
 Photo: Claudio |
 Photo: Diego |
 Photo: Filippo Prezioso |
 Photo: Luciano Salvietti Cignetti |
 Photo: Elis Frigini |
 Photo: Diego Cosenza |
The magnificent Basilica of Bologna's patron saint |
Piazza Maggiore Bologna 40124 +39 51 22 5442 |
In Bologna's very famous medieval Piazza Maggiore, we find the majestic Basilica di San Petronio, which is unique in the world, because its façade has been left unfinished. It was designed by the architect A.di Vicenzo. It was unanimously decided by all parties involved that construction work would begin, with the first stone being laid, in 1390. The holy building was entrusted with Bologna's religious and civil powers, and was dedicated to Saint Petronio, the city's patron. The building works were finished in 1659, but the front of the church remained incomplete, as it still does today. On the marble base of the facade, the beautiful main portal, or Porta Magna, sculptured by Jacopo della Quercia was interrupted by the artist's death whilst the smaller doors were sculptured by other sculptors including Alfonso Lombardi, Amico Aspertini, Givanni di da Modena, and il Parmigianino. Inside the Basilica, with its Italian Gothic influences, are large and surprisingly well-lit, with red hues and tall, rarified pillars. A number of important historical events have taken place in the Basilica: Pope Clement VII crowned the emperor Carlo V here in 1530 and several sessions of the Council of Trent were held here. In the 22 side chapels, closed off by some beautiful wrought iron, brass and marble barriers, a huge artistic heritage consisting of paintings and sculptures, has been conserved. Also of great importance is the Meridian line that has been traced on the ground by the astronomer D.Cassini in 1655. At the end of the left hand nave is the small but delightful San Petronio museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
 Photo: Chip & Chan Clifollo |
 Photo: Michael Drury |
 Photo: coronelta |
 Photo: Tony Serra |
 Photo: Antonio Ilardo |
 Photo: Gary Mintchell |
 Photo: Martin Parker |
 Photo: Evgenia Melnik |
 Photo: Stefano Liboni |
 Photo: Catalina Escalante B |
 Photo: Sandy J. |
 Photo: Joel Armstrong |
Difficulty of integration |
22 Via Nizza Turin 10125 |
The church of San Salvario stands in one of Turin's most notorious areas; notorious for there being difficulty of integration of the local population with the immigrant population that has arrived in recent years. Construction of the church and its convent annexe began in 1645 but it was soon altered by Castellamonte who introduced the convent wings on either side of the church. The facade has two orders with the portico crowned by another trabeation. The upper level of the building takes up the motif that decorates the portico. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: silvia osella |
 Photo: silvia osella |
 Photo: silvia osella |
Simple Florentine church |
Via Monte alle Croci Florence 50125 |
The building appears extremely simple. It has a plaster facade which is only animated by tympan windows and by portals. The everyday construction was the work of Cronaca who renewed and enlarged the church at the end of the fifteenth century and the beginning of the sixteenth. The church was governed by the Franciscans and was limited to the space which is today known as the big chapel. The interior follows the model of other Florentine churches (eg Santa Maria Maddalena de'Pazzi). It is decorated with paintings from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries and only a few works remain from the sixteenth century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sandro Migliorini |
Small church rebuilt by C.F. Dotti. |
Via San Sigismondo 7 Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40126 +39 51 22 9685 |
This small, delightful church is thought to have been built before 1200. It was restored by the Malvezzi family in 1450 and in 1725 they instructed the architect C.F.Dotti to completely reconstruct this sanctuary. The bell tower was designed by Angelo Venturoli and was built in 1795. The exterior of the church is very sober and is built in a classical style. Inside, there is a single nave with four side altars decorated with works by Crespi and D.Pedrini. The vaulted ceiling is frescoed with sublime images by Michele Mastellari and Napoleone Angiolini. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ho visto nina volare |
Ancient romanic church |
7 Piazza San Simpliciano Milan, Milan 20121 +39 (0)2 869 0683 (per concerti) |
This church features Roman architecture, partly changed by modern interventions. However, San Simpliciano has kept part of the old walls of the Basilica Virginum, which existed in the 4th century. Begun by Bishop Ambrogio and finished by his successor Simplciano as a place to keep the relics of the saints, Martirio, Sisino and Alessandro and Simpliciano himself, the structure is built using the famous latin cross design. The current building has three naves of equal height and a semicircular apse with frescoes of the Coronation of Mary, by Bergognone. This is also a popular concert venue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sciura Pina |
 Photo: brando cimarosti |
Three centuries of neglect |
Costabissara Via S. Zeno Bardolino 37011 |
This church in Bardolino recieved a chaplain from the San Zeno Abbey put forward by the Abbot himself. It probably dates back to the eleventh century, when it was mentioned in a document, abandoned in the sixteenth century and then recovered again in the course of the nineteenth century. The exterior is not particularly remarkable, it is more impressive from the inside. The interior contains a single nave and six columns along the walls surmounted by Ionic capitals. The non-existent bell-tower was replaced by a bell set into the masonry. From Garda, it is a short way down the Gardesana main road, just before the Cavaion crossroads. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: aurelio candido |
 Photo: VivoEnLaEraPop |
 Photo: MAURIZIO SCARPA |
 Photo: jkornysheva |
 Photo: Nicola Lucchi |
 Photo: marmotta60 |
 Photo: Briac |
 Photo: Roel Renmans |
 Photo: anatole upart |
 Photo: Vincent Mulder |
 Photo: Sciura Pina |
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 Photo: J Taylor M Rowcliffe |
 Photo: Mila Makarevich |
Sanctuary built in honour of the Madonna |
Via San Luca 36 Bologna, Bologna 40019 +39 (0)51 647 2113 (Tourist Information) |
Erected in the Baroque style by Carlo Francesco Dotti in 1741, the long portico leading to the majestic Santuario is made up of 666 arches which run for 3,500 metres from Porta Saragozza to the sanctuary on Colle della Guardia. Built in honour of an image of the Madonna, the edifice is beautiful, both for its architecture and its exclusive view. Each May the citizens of Bologna carry the figure of the Madonna around the city in procession. People travel from all over the world to take part; it is said that doing so is of great spiritual benefit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marta |
 Photo: Francesca D |
 Photo: donetta |
 Photo: Davide Fornari |
 Photo: Andrioli Darvin |
 Photo: Photo_free |
 Photo: Francesco & Chiara |
 Photo: Steve in the cemeter |
 Photo: krux25 |
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 Photo: Tom Robertson |
 Photo: Ricardo Giorgi |
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 Photo: Haley Rogers |
 Photo: Chris Hunter |
 Photo: Giacomo Bergonzoni |
Chapel of the de'Sangro family |
19 Via Francesco De Sanctis Naples 80134 +39 81 551 8470 |
The burial chapel of the de'Sangro family is linked to the figure of Prince Raimondo, the great patron and charismatic personality of 18th century Naples. The foundations of the first chapel were built in 1590 in a corner of the garden of the same palace; this was enlarged in 1608 and was destined to be a tomb for family members. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mikaela Cortopassi |
 Photo: Emanuele d'Angelo |
A treasure trove of renaissance art. |
Via Zamboni 15 Bologna 40126 |
The beautiful portico of San Giacomo Maggiore can be found on a stretch of Via Zamboni between Piazza Rossini and Piazza Verdi. You can enter the magnificent Santa Cecilia oratory which has been dubbed the "Sistine Chapel" of Bologna. The small Santa Cecilia church dates back to the thirteenth century and it was taken over by the Agostinian Order in 1323. In 1505, Giovanni II Bentivoglio, a wealthy man from Bologna, instructed all the major producers of renaissance art to help with the decoration of this small sanctuary. After some lengthy restoration, this historical treasure trove has finally been opened to the public, giving you the chance to see this valuable dedication to Santa Cecilia. The ten frescoes were painted by the Bolognese Art school between the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries with work by artists like Lorenzo Costa, Francesco Francia, Amico Aspertini and Cesare Tamaroccio. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: heathersills |
 Photo: heathersills |
Provincial-Gothic Church |
Via Benedetto Croce Naples 80134 +39 81 552 6209 |
The church of Santa Chiara was built between 1310 and 1328. The original design of the church's interior was completely transformed by Domenico Antonio Vaccaro between 1742 and 1747, and the entire gothic structure was covered by magnificent Baroque ornaments. The Baroque look remained until it was heavily damaged during WWII. Now fully restored, it is open to the public for tours and services. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roberto Perretta |
 Photo: Ray Mosley |
 Photo: Luigi |
 Photo: Robert Scott |
 Photo: recarlodiborbone |
 Photo: Annalaura Murolo |
 Photo: denis38100 |
 Photo: Massimiliano Ferro |
 Photo: monsieur_gé |
 Photo: furaniello by Falzea |
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 Photo: Irene Vecchia |
Franciscan basilica |
Piazza Santa Croce Florence 50122 |
The building of Santa Croce basilica began in 1294. Giotto's frescoes in the chapels at the head of the transept are considered to be some of the finest examples of fourteenth-century painting, while the architect Matas is responsible for the church's distinctive green and white marble façade. The church contains funeral monuments to intellectual, moral and religious figures from Italy's past, including Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Gioacchino Rossini, Galileo and Ugo Foscolo. Although exiled from Florence and buried in Ravenna, Dante, father of the Italian language, is honoured with a cenotaph. Services: 8a, 9:30a, 11a, noon and 6p Sun. As of May 2005 the church of Santa Croce and the Museo dell'Opera di Santa Croce have been combined into one entity for all tourist purposes. They are both open for visit during similar hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: librarymaven |
 Photo: Felix Lai |
 Photo: Ian Abramson |
 Photo: Roadstar.co.uk |
 Photo: Carter Henricks |
 Photo: Michele Epifani |
 Photo: amy thorpe |
 Photo: Geoff Martin |
 Photo: Chelsea |
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Early Christian church |
Piazza Santa Felicita, 3 Florence 50125 +39 55 21 3018 |
The foundations of one of the city's oldest churches date back to the 4th century, when Christianity was in its infancy. Named after Roman martyr St Felicita, the church gradually took shape during the Romanesque period. In the first half of the 18th century Ferdinando Ruggieri made changes to the building, one of which was the inclusion in the structure of the Vasari Corridor that connected the Palazzo Vecchio to Pitti Palace. During the reign of Medici successors the Lorraine family, the church was used as a court chapel. Designed by Brunelleschi for the Barbadori family, little of the original structure of the chapel (later known as the Capponi Chapel) remains due to renovation work carried out during the 18th century. It does however contain two sixteenth-century masterpieces - the Deposition and the Annunciation - by Jacopo Carrucci (also known as Pontormo) that were commissioned by Ludovico Capponi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: david condrau |
Church between station and cathedral |
Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore Florence 50123 |
Founded before 1000AD, this church was reconstructed in the thirteenth century in gothic style for the Vallombrosiani family. On entering there is a sober atmosphere which comes from the internal structure with its three naves, broken up into arcades with pointed arches on quadrangular pillars. It was based on the cistercene model from the time of Buontalenti. In the large Chapel, the frescoes contain scenes from "Herototus ordering the massacre" and "The massacre of the Innocents" from the end of the fourteenth century. Services: 7:30a 9a 10:30a 12p 7p 9p Sunday. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: l.traube |
Churches within the church |
27 Via Liberiana Rome, Rome 00185 |
Santa Maria Maggiore harmonizes a great variety of architectural styles: the naves date from the 15th century, the bell-tower is medieval, the ceiling is from the Renaissance and the domes are Baroque. Here, one might say, the entire history of ecclesiastical architecture is united under one roof. The Capella Sforza is by Michelangelo. The finest fresco painters of the age took turns decorating the walls of this imposing edifice, and it is said that the magnificent ceiling was gilded with the first gold brought back from America by Christopher Columbus. Over the years certain details of the basilica have been destroyed, notably the mosaics that used to decorate the apse, which dates from 1200. The bell-tower was rebuilt in the 14th century, to the original design, after being destroyed in an earthquake. Popes Sixtus V and Paul V are buried here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Earl W. |
 Photo: Domrongpon Tanpaibul |
 Photo: Vegsund |
 Photo: Upali Wickramasinghe |
 Photo: Walter Rodriguez |
 Photo: Michaela Stanková |
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Italian Architecture with Gothic Strains |
Piazza Santa Maria Novella Florence 50123 |
This church was built in 1278 by architects (Brother Sisto, and Brother Ristoro) who were part of the Dominican order, the work was carried on by Brothers Jacopo Talenti and Giovanni da Campi, and was constructed along Gothic lines. The church still bears evidence of the Gothic style in the lower part of the façade in its avelli (grave niches) with its pointed arches, which are clad in green and white marble these colours are to be found in the upper part of the façade elegant with its classical motifs, designed by Leon Battista Alberti in the 1470s at the request of Giovanni Rucellai. The left side of the façade which leads to the cloisters of S. Maria Novella. (an admission fee is charged). The most important and interesting objects of art are to be found in the chapels of the prized and famous families. The Rucellai chapel is on the right of the church, with a marble sculpture of Madonna and child by Nino Pisano. The Cappella Bardi is the second on the right and was the resting place of the famous Majesty Duccio da Boninsegna, which is in the room of the Uffizi. The chapel adjacent is that of Filippo Strozzi and is decorated with stories of S. Filippo by Filippino Lippi in the 1590s, and sculptures by Benedetto da Maiano. The chapel of Giovanni Tornabuoni has wonderful scenes of political and cultural life of the times with illustrious men, humanists and famous Florentines. The frescoes depict the life of the Madonna and Saint John the Baptist and were created by Domenico Ghirlandaio and other members of his family, together with Sebastiano Mainarda in 1485-90. After the cappella maggiore is the cappella Gondi with its wooden cross by Brunelleschi framed by Giuliano da Sangallo's architecture, and the capella Gaddi encrusted with stones and marble. The cappella Strozzi is to be found on the left side of the church and is decorated with 14th century frescoes of Heaven, Hell, and judgement day by Nardo di Cione, the brother of Orcagna, the author of the altar piece with Cristo risorto (Christ risen) 1347. The sacristy and its furnishings can be seen on the left side of the church as you descend the steps from the capella Strozzi, you can purchase books and religious objects from here. Finally, you can see the glorious fresco by Masaccio (circa 1427), can be found along the left side of the aisle, this is the fresco of the Madonna, saint John, the kneeling Lenzi couple. Open: 7a-11:30a,3:30p-6p M-Su Services: 8:30a, 10:30a, noon, 6p Su Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Dinsmore |
 Photo: Jany L.M. |
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 Photo: Jody Godoy |
 Photo: Faye Steel |
 Photo: C. Rudisill |
 Photo: Lee Ann Paynter |
 Photo: Katie Walsh |
 Photo: menica mameli |
 Photo: Stewart Fleming |
 Photo: Fabio De Angelis |
 Photo: Grace K. Raffaele |
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 Photo: Barbara Edwards |
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 Photo: Jill Alcibar |
Church dating back to 1346 |
Strada Maggiore 43 Bologna 40125 +39 51 22 6807 |
Building work on Santa Maria dei Servi was begun in 1346 by the Servi di Maria (Servants of Mary). The church was enlarged in 1381 following the design of A. da Faenza and building only finished in 1545. The last restauration work took place in 1910. The exterior of the church is in a late Gothic style and is adorned by a beautiful four-sided portico which extends from the façade to beyond the left hand side of the church. The interior has three naves and is also late Gothic in style. The chapels are enriched with lots of Baroque elements. Some of the works of art include the Maestà by Cimabue, and works by Lippo di Dalmasio, A Tiarini, U Gandolfi, A Piò, etc. The convent is annexed to the church and contains lots of paintings and frescoes. It is said that the painting of San Carlo Borromeo e Angeli was painted by Guido Reni by candlelight in the space of a night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Angus Kennedy |
 Photo: Flavio Michele Pinna |
Renaissance church and chapel |
Piazza del Carmine, 14 Florence 50124 +39 55 21 2331 |
This second century church is found in the Oltrarno. It was completely destroyed by a fire and rebuilt in the eighteenth century by Ruggieri and then Mannaioni. The Brancacci Chapel is the most precious part remaining from the fire. It was frescoed by Masolino and Masaccio beginning in 1424 and was finished by Filippino Lippi after 1480. Inside, two particular scenes frescoed by Masaccio stand out: "The payment of tribute" and the "Purge from Paradise". These constitute an example imitated throughout the renaissance, especially in the ways in which naked bodies were studied at close quarters, both in their proportions and in their volumes. The chapel has a separate entrance where a charge is applicable. Services:8a, 10a, noon, 5p Su (Winter months) 6p Su Summer months. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ray Mosley |
 Photo: ginieland |
 Photo: Kyung |
Ancient church in the historic Brera area |
2 Piazza del Carmine Milan, Milan 20121 +39 2 8646 3365 http://www.chiesadelcarmine.it |
At the entrance to the historic Brera quarter is the church dedicated to S. Maria del Carmine. It was built in 1400 for Gian Galeazzo Visconti on an old Carmelite instituition which was abandoned because of the neighbouring castle in construction. Planned by Bernado da Venezia according to a typical square design, already used by the architect for the church del Carmine di Pavia, the building had many interruptions that lasted until 1456 with the intervention of Pietro Solari. Transformed in the Baroque era, the church was brought back to gothic form by the radical intervention of the architects Giuseppe Pestagalli (1826-39) and Carlo Maciachini (1880) who also planned the facade, and Ambrogio Annoni in 1912. Inside the church, the sculptures, paintings and wooden inlay from the 15th-17th centuries, are all of note and there are two surviving cloisters in which fragments of roman and medieval sculptures can be found as well as parts from the fifteenth century which come from sepulchral monuments which were once in the church. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Aneta Georgieva |
 Photo: Amedeo Fontana |
 Photo: Roberto Canu |
 Photo: giorgio gherardi |
Baroque façade |
Campo Santa Maria Del Giglio O Zobenigo Venice 30124 +39 41 522 1188 |
A short walk from the Fenice theatre and Gritti's residence stands this luxury hotel. The Gothic façade, recently restored to its original splendor, is adorned with 4 statues representing the Barbero family. On the lower part of the façade there are maps of fortresses and inside are paintings by Tintoretto and Rubens. Admission: L.3000 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Deborah Sabadash |
A panoramic view |
35 Via Maresciallo Gaetano Giardino Turin 10131 +39 11 660 4414 |
If you decide to accept the challenge of making the climb up the Monte dei Cappuccini, you will find the church of Santa Maria del Monte on the top next to the national museum. The church was built on the spot where a structure that used to be known as the "bastion of Turin" used to stand. A statue of St. Mary stands in front of the centrally laid out ground plan. The smoothed corners of the church form an octagonal design in which there are apses of various depth. The right altar is decorated with a copy of the painting by Cerano of the "Madonna and Saints Francis and Laurence". The original is held in the Savoy Gallery. The high altar is a 17th c. work by Carlo and Amedeo di Castellamonte. The left altar contains the painting "The martyrdom of St. Maurice" by Moncalvo from the early 17th c. Open: 8.30a-noon, 3p-7.30p Services: Weekdays: 6.30p; Weekends: 11a, 5p Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jenn98011 |
 Photo: mainone |
 Photo: Michael Richner |
Seventeenth century church with extraordinary works of art. |
Via San Vitale 112 Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40125 |
This seventeenth century church was built with donations from the city´s guilds and administrative bodies. It has a single nave with side altars which are decorated with valuable masterpieces. There is the Flight to Egypt by Andrea Donducci known as the "Mastellatta", the 'Crucifix' by Bartolomeo Cesi, the 'Miracle of the bread loaves' by Lavinia Fontana, the 'Death of San Francesco' by Ercole Graziani and 'St.Orsola with his disciples' by Bartolomeo Passerotti. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mikaela Cortopassi |
Church containing a sculptural group by Niccolò dell'Arca |
Via Clavature 10 Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40124 +39 51 23 6245 |
This church was rebuilt at the end of the 18th century by Bergonzoni. The church has a large dome which was built by Tubertini in 1787. This dome can be seen rising above the red roofs of Bologna's houses. It was built by the "Compagnia dei Battuti" to house the needy and sick. The Baroque interior is very sobre. There is a beautiful sculptural group called Christ and the Imploring Marys in the chapel to the right of the altar. The group is made up of seven life size terracotta statues by Niccolò dell'Arca, and dates back to the 15th century. In the oratory which is annexed to the building and which was designed by Floriano Ambrosini, you can see another fourteen terracotta statues by Alfonso Lombardi (1522). An interesting museum has recently been set up in the oratory. The museum displays lots of antique medical equipemt, and is called the Museo della Sanità e dell'Assistenza. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jesús Rojo |
 Photo: Paolo |
The Stairway of Hope |
4 Piazza del Campidoglio Scala dell'Arce Capitolina, 12 Rome 00186 +39 066794053 |
The beautiful church of Santa Maria in Aracoeli, built on the foundations of the temple of Juno, is located on top of the Capitoline hill, near the Campidoglio. It is reached by more than 100 steps, which, according to tradition, one must climb on one's knees in order to obtain pardon for one's sins. The interior of the church is magnificently decorated with paintings by Pinturicchio, and the ceiling bears frescoes recording the battle of Lepanto. It is said that the statue of the baby Jesus, carved from a tree trunk from the garden of Gethsemane, has miraculous powers. However, the original statue was stolen and never recovered. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ivan Wu |
 Photo: Caleigh Burns |
 Photo: Elwyng |
 Photo: foto daniel |
 Photo: nyla |
The miraculous icon |
9 Piazza di Campitelli Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 6880 3978 |
This church was built to house an icon of the Madonna that was venerated with particular fervour by the Romans - they held it responsible for the miracle of the liberation from the plague. The construction works were entrusted to the architect Carlo Reinaldi. The Baroque design is less ornate than others of its time, with a façade devoid of statues or stuccoes. There are works by Luca Giordano, Sebastiano Conca and Baciccia. Among the artefacts worth a look are a portable altar and a Byzantine mosaic in the Capella delle Reliquie, and the beautiful gilded shrine by Antonio de Rossi, bearing the image of the Madonna. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stefano Vesco |
 Photo: Roberta Giustini |
Liars watch out! |
18 Piazza Bocca della Verità Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 678 1419 |
This basilica was constructed on the ancient site of a grocery market. Its famous facade consists of a portico with arches, inside which is a stone mask known as The Mouth of Truth, reputed to bite off the hand of any liar who dares to reach inside. Inside the basilica is a mosaic-covered floor and a wooden ceiling, added during successive restorations. Later restorations added the choir with two pulpits and the high altar in red granite. The seven story, Romanesque bell tower is considered the most beautiful in Rome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: rakaa |
 Photo: Luca Pelorosso |
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 Photo: Santiago Glez Chinea |
 Photo: Karen Orth |
 Photo: Sr. Arrastrao |
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 Photo: Jeffrey Baker |
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A home for the poor |
10 Piazza Navicella Rome, Rome 00184 +39 6 700 1519 |
The church of Santa Maria in Domnica is also known as the church of the Navicella because of the representation of a Roman boat in a fountain that stands in front of it. The church stands at the crossroads of four large roads in the highest and most central area of the Celio. Here lie the remains of the imperial city. The origins of the church date to the 7th century. The Renaissance-style façade has a wide portico with five arches designed by Andrea Sansovino. The interior is divided into three naves with 18 grey granite columns topped by Corinthian capitals. Note the mosaics at the end of the nave, and the Roman sarcophaguses along the sides. Also noteworthy is the panelled ceiling that has recently been restored. It is adorned with Renaissance frescoes by Perin del Vaga. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: colophony |
The sacred heart of Trastevere |
14c Via della Paglia Rome, Rome 00153 +39 6 581 4802 http://www.romecity.it/Santama... |
This is the first Rome church to be consecrated to the Madonna. Its foundations were laid in approximately 400, when Christianity was only just beginning to take root in Europe. The present edifice is dated 1300 and contains beautiful mosaics by Pietro Cavallini, especially those dedicated to the life of the Virgin Mary. There is a magnificent life-size icon, 'La Madonna della Clemenza', from as early as the 7th century. The nave is formed from granite columns taken from ancient Roman edifices. The 12th-century mosaics of the façade, depicting the Madonna and child and ten women holding lamps, are not to be missed. The portico was renovated in the 18th century by Carlo Fontana and the balustrade is decorated with statues of Popes, baroque additions which do not detract from the church's original medieval aspect. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Temmy Tanubrata |
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 Photo: Carlotta Politano |
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The twin dome |
26 Piazza Madonna di Loreto Rome, Rome 00187 +39 6 679 2235 |
This large dome can be seen rising up from amongst the Roman remains of the Forum. The dome itself is rich with windows, tympanums, and pillars - crowning the 16th century church of Santa Maria di Loreto. The church was built for the Confraternità dei Fornari. Work on it was begun by Antonio da Sangallo il Giovane, but was finished by one of Michelangelo's students, Jacopo del Duca. The entrance portal carries the signature of Andrea Sansovino. The church is built on a central plan and is made up of semicircular chapels. It is decorated with mosaics, canvases, and six statues representing angels and saints. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Valentina Fabbretti |
 Photo: Pieralfonso Longo |
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The twin churches |
528 Via del Corso Rome, Rome 00187 +39 6 361 0250 |
The original project was for two twin churches, but during the construction various necessary modifications were made. The architect, Carlo Rainaldi, finished the construction of Santa Maria di Montesanto in 1675 and began work on the neighbouring Santa Maria dei Miracoli, completing it in 1681. The domes were restored in the early eighteen hundreds and covered in slate tiles, an unusual technique in Rome, giving the domes a smoky colour which can be seen from the terrace of Pincio. Santa Maria di Montesanto is known as "The church of the artists" because of its proximity to Via Margutta & via del Babuino, making it a common venure for the funerals of artists, film directors and letterati. Both churches present the visitor with works of illustrious artists, such Baciccia, Carlo Maratta and Antonio Raggi, a pupil of Bernini's, responsible for the allegorical stuccoes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Danny Gonzalez |
A church for peace |
5 Via della Pace Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 686 1156 |
Pope Sixtus IV called on the architect Baccio Pontelli for the construction of this church at the end of the 15th century, during a period of peace after the end of the war with the Turks. It was, indeed, dedicated to the Madonna, as a token of thanks for that peace. At the beginning of the 16th century Bramante added the cloister, which, though modest in itself, lent an effect of size to the church. Among the frescoes present are Raphael's 'Sybil' and 'Prophets', designed by Raphael but executed by his pupil Timoteo Viti. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Acciaio |
Lose yourself in pomp |
12 Via del Popolo Rome, Rome 00187 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
In 1099 Pope Pasquale II had a chapel erected in honor of the Madonna, to commemorate the victory of the crusaders who had liberated the Holy Sepulchre. Two hundred years later, Pope Gregory IX enlarged this chapel and brought to it a painting of the Virgin, said to be by St Luke. But it was under Pope Sixtus IV that the church really took shape. Its interior presents numerous works of art, including frescoes by Pinturichhio in the Cappella Della Rovere, dramatic paintings by Caravaggio in the Cappella Cerasi, and the Cappella Chigi, designed by Raphael with sculptures by Bernini and Lorenzetti. The splendid stained-glass windows, by the French artist Guillaume de Marcillat, are unique in Rome for the period. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kris Long |
Masterpiece by Bramante |
3 Via Speronari Milan, Milan 20123 +39 2 87 4683 |
This extremely famous church is linked to the name of Bramante. In actual fact, nearby S. Satiro has a much older foundation which was influenced by Bishop Ansperto and generally dates from the 9th century. However, the old building is almost unrecognisable following the works of the renaissance period and the nineteenth restorations. The design of the church is attributed to Bramante who presence on the site is documented in 1478. The church occupies a plot of land delineated by what is Via Torino and Via del Falcone today, an old district of the Visconti-Sforzesca era. The choir-stall is particularly original as it is small yet very deep. On the left side of the transept is a chapel 'della Pieta' where there is a Greek cross contained in a cylinder by Bramante which one can admire from Via del Falcone. There is the famous model group in the inside in polychrome terracotta, which is the work of Agostino de Fondulis (1482-83), who also made the terracotta decorations of the sacristy and dome. The sacristy is an octagonal building, by Bramante which is reached by a small hall from the right nave modified in the 19th century. This interesting building was one of the highlights of Bramante's work, evidence of which is all over the Duchy of Sforzesco. The 'caged' church exterior is a result of the later buildings which do not allow a wide view of the church, nonetheless the facade can be seen from Via del Falcone as planned by Bramante. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Montanari |
 Photo: donalmurphy1987 |
A magnificent church |
42 Piazza della Minerva Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 699 0339 http://www.basilicaminerva.it/ Giovanni.Monti@agora.it |
Piazza della Minerva is just off Via della Minerva behind the Pantheon. The name of the church, Santa Maria sopra Minerva, was given by the church's position as it is believed it was built over the Roman temple dedicated to Minerva Calcidica. Work began on the church in 1280 but the façade was only completed in 1453. In fact this was meant to be temporary but it has remained unaltered despite many plans up until the 19th century to modify it. The interior is the only example of Gothic architecture in Rome. The 3 naves are crowned by cross vaults resting on marble pillars, but the most arresting sight is the decoration which is a true work of art. The chapels are decorated with frescoes and mosaics by artists like Melozzo da Forlì, Andrea Bregno, Verrocchio, Giuliano da Maiano, and Filippo Lippi but just as worthy are the statue of Christ Risen (also known as Christ the Redeemer) by Michelangelo who depicted Christ with the symbols of his martyrdom embracing the Cross, the funerary monuments of Popes Leo X and Clement VII by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger behind the altar, and the Tomb of Cardinal Domenico Pimentel designed by Bernini. The funerary monument and sarcophagus of St. Catherine of Siena were restored for the Jubilee. On one side of the church can be seen the former convent which was once the offices of the Ministry of Education and now of the Ministry of Scientific and Technological Research. It also holds the Casanatense Library with texts from the history of the Church. In the centre of the square in front of the church stands a small Egyptian obelisk known as the Pulcin della Minerva. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Near to the Santa Trinita bridge |
Piazza Santa Trinita Florence 50123 |
This building was originally erected in the middle of the 11th century and after modifications spanning three centuries, the church finally took the form of the plans drawn up by Neri di Fioravante at the end of the 14th century. The façade however was the work of Bernardo Buontalenti. Inside, the only chapel to preserve its original 15th century decorations is the fourth in the right-hand nave. It was Lorenzo Monaco who, between 1420-1425, painted the series of frescoes telling the story of the Virgin Mary and the altar-piece with the Annunciation. The first chapel on the right, in the apse walls, was owned by the Sassetti family who commissioned Domenico Ghirlandio to paint the series of frescoes telling the stories of St Francis of Assisi which depict aspects of 15th century life with particular realism. Il Ghirlandaio also worked on the altar-piece with the Shepherd's worship, dated 1485. Open:7:30a-noon, 4p-7p M-Su Services: 7:30a, 9a, 10:30a, noon, 6:30p Su Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Vladimir Gitin |
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5th largest church in the world |
Piazza Santo Stefano Bologna 40125 |
The most well-known and legendary place of worship in the city comprises several holy buildings, built and renovated at various times. The complex consists of: The Chiesa del Crocifisso, the Chiesa del S. Sepolcro, the Chiesa dei Santi Vitale e Agricola, the Chiesa della Trinita, the Benedictine Cloisters, the Chiesetta della Madonna del Loreto (protector of avaiators), the Chapel of Santa Giuliana and the chapel of the Cross. The Romanic cloister, with its loggia columns topped with anthropomorphic and zoomorphic capitals, is the ideal place to reflect on the beautiful mystique of this legendary place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Church with large dome |
Via Matteotti 27 Bologna 40064 |
This building dates back to the beginning of the 20th century and was designed by Edoardo Collamarini for Cardinal Svampa who handed it over to the adjacent Salesian college. The church was consacrated by Cardinal Giacomo della Chiesa in 1912. The majestic dome, which is 60 metres high, has collapsed twice and was definitively rebuilt in 1929. The church contains paintings by Alessandro Franchi, Augusto Majani, and Renato Pasqui. The body of the founder of the church, Domenico Svampa, is buried in the crypt. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mikaela Cortopassi |
Sistine Chapel of Rome |
Viale Vaticano Viale del Vaticano Rome, Rome +39 068 530 1758 http://www.vatican.va ilsogno@romeguide.it |
Visiting Rome for the first time, visitors must experience the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican structure with 50 million monthly visitors. The Chapel was built between 1477 and 1481 by Pope Sixtus IV. From 1480 to 1483 the walls were decorated by famous artists of Renaissance, such as Botticelli, Perugino, Ghirlandaio. After twenty years, Julius II commissioned Michelangelo to decorate the ceiling in 1508. Today, after the restoration, tourists can visit the chapel and see Michelangelo's 'Last Judgement'. The Vatican has placed its enormous art collection on the Web in hopes that it will attract more tourists. The site allows visitors to take a virtual reality tour of some of the dozen museums and galleries that make up the Vatican collection, viewing Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with a three-dimensional video. At the Chapel, you will invariably find it crowded with hundreds of tourists, so be prepared. The best way to see it is to go to the Vatican Museums early, so that you're among the first in line when they open. Silence should be observed and photography is not prohibited. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jan Voorhaar |
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Place of martyrdom |
30 Via Santa Maria dell'Anima Rome, Rome 00186 |
This church, which looks onto Piazza Navona, was originally the chapel of the Pamphili family, who lived in the building next door. It was built in the 17th century on a site that had been a place of worship dedicated to St Agnes (who was martyred in the piazza), since the 700s. Work began under the guidance of Carlo Rainaldi, who was succeeded by Borromini. The latter stuck to his predecessor's designs for the interior, but modified the façade. The interior is rich in precious marbles, gilded stucco and frescoes. There are altarpieces in marble, and statues, all works of Bernini's pupils. A stairway leads underground to where St Agnes was killed, and on the altar a marble relief records the miracle by which the martyr's hair grew to cover her body. Services: 7.45a, 6p M-F; 9.30a, 11a, 6.30p Su (6p winter) Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Valentina Buj |
 Photo: Luciano |
 Photo: Andrew Hendry |
 Photo: Fabrizio Zuncheddu |
 Photo: Mikaela Cortopassi |
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14th Century Church |
Campo Sant'Alvise Venice 30131 +39 41 524 4664 |
Donated by Antonia Venier, this church was built at the end of the 15th century, but subsequent restorations have altered its old austerity, except for the choir stalls for the nuns and the Barbicans. Tiepolo's Passione di Gesu and the Poverta di Giobbe wrongly attributed to Vittor Carpaccio by Ruskin, adorn the interior. Admission: L.3000 (EUR 1.54). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jasmine Cloud |
 Photo: Andrea Aguzzi |
 Photo: Steven W Lum |
In honour of Bernardino |
256 Via Panisperna Rome, Rome 00184 +39 6 482 5217 |
Opposite the church of Sant'Agata dei Goti stands the lovely church of San Bernardino da Siena ai Monti, the only one dedicated to the Sienese saint in Rome. The building, consecrated in 1625, probably stands on the ruins of an older one. The round interior has five altars; the high altar is dedicated to the saint and has a canvas showing him amongst angels and cherubs. Two frescoes depict the preaching and funeral of the saint. The two chapels to the right of the high altar are respectively dedicated to St Francis of Assisi and Jesus, while the two on the left are dedicated to Santa Verdiana and the Madonna and Child. Although it was not the work of a master, the dome is adorned with paintings, stucchi and gilding which give it a certain elegance. It was the work of Bernardino Gagliardi who portrayed the glory of the Franciscan saints. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Guido |
Medieval church |
22 Piazza di Santa Cecilia Rome, Rome 00153 +39 6 589 9289 |
The Chiesa di Santa Cecilia is one of the most noteworthy amongst Rome's medieval churches for its valuable works of art. The statue of Saint Cecilia is placed under the main altar over the saint's grave and is the work of Maderno. The sculptor depicted Cecilia in the same way in which her body was found during the excavations of 1599, with a long cut in her neck, which caused her death after three days of agony and after having undergone the martyrdom of suffocation by boiling vapours. The altar is of great artistic importance because of the gothic canopy by Arnolfo di Cambio which covers it. The altar also holds the work of Reni, the Decollazione della Santa. The cloisters can be entered through the left-hand aisle and are well-worth visiting. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Luigi Zarrillo |
 Photo: Adrian Duffy |
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 Photo: Juan Antonio Mosquera Casais |
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The mini church |
23 Via del Quirinale Rome, Rome 00187 +39 6 488 3261 |
Romans call this church San Carlino because of its diminutive size. In fact it could easily fit into one of the pillars that supports the dome of San Pietro. Carried out according to Borromini's design, it has a beautiful oval-shaped dome brightened by hidden windows. Borromini's hand is evident in all of the detail: the confessionals that mirror the architecture of the church for example, or the wrought-iron well in the middle of the cloister. At the main altar, the French artist Pierre Mignard portrays San Carlo Borromeo in an altarpiece. The vestry holds another painting of the saint in adoration of the Trinity by Orazio Borgianni. Don't miss the perfectly proportioned and harmonious cloister. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rob Skiena |
On three strata |
Via di San Giovanni in Laterano Rome, Rome 00184 +39 6 7045 1018 |
A visit to this basilica is a fascinating journey through time. From the upper basilica, which dates from the beginning of the 12th century and whose apse boasts the mosaic 'The Triumph of the Cross', one passes into the 4th-century lower basilica, and, via a stairway, down to the roman constructions and to the 'mitreo', a 3rd-century temple dedicated to the God Mithra. Of particular interest are the frescoes in the chapel of St. Catherine, painted between 1428 and 1431 by Masolino da Panicale, possibly with the collaboration of Masaccio. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laura Benold |
Be a careful driver |
4 Piazza Santa Francesca Romana Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 679 5528 |
The saint to whom this church is dedicated lived in the Trastevere district of the city in the 15th century. She devoted her life to helping the poor and the sick and founded an association for women on their own. It was sanctified 200 years later and was dedicated to a church called the Santa Maria Nuova. In the church you can see a slab of stone that bears the imprints left by the knees of St Peter and St Paul. Every year on March 9, Romans drive here, as St Francesca Romana is the patron saint of cars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Petra Rich |
St Francis' stopover spot |
88 Piazza San Francesco d'Assisi Rome, Rome 00153 +39 6 581 9020 SanFrancescodAssisiaRipaGrande@VicariatusUrbis.org |
Originally, this was a Benedictine monastery which served as a hospice to welcome pilgrims who arrived by river. Even San Francesco stayed here and this is why the monastery was later passed on to the Franciscans. The church was rebuilt at the end of the 17th century but the rooms where San Francesco stayed were preserved. Inside, the present chapels keep great works of art, like the Paluzzi-Albertoni chapel which boasts one of Bernini's greatest masterpieces, the statue 'Estasi di Beata Ludovica Albertoni', or Baciccia's painting 'Madonna col Bambino e Sant'Anna' in the background. The vestry leads to the San Francesco chapel where a cabinet of relics dated late 17th century contains a portrait of the saint, his stone cushion and his crucifix. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Barbara Hoffman |
 Photo: Lee Burton |
 Photo: J Goforth |
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The oldest church in Venice |
Campo San Polo Venice 30123 |
If you get lost in the Rialto market, ask someone from San Giacometo for directions. Above the tribunal, near the main entrance, are an extraordinary 24-hour clock and the original porch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sergio Del Piccolo |
 Photo: Omar Madrigal |
Remembering the saint founder |
8a Via del Caravita Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 679 4406 http://www.chiesasantignazio.org/ f.romanin@tiscalinet.it |
This church was built in the first decade of the 17th century to pay homage to the founder of the Jesuit Order. The magnificent splendor of this chapel is typical of the period. Inside, you can admire the precious stones, gilding, marble and stucco work. For the frescoes they called upon the artist Andrea Pozzo, who designed the 'trompe l'oeil' effect ceiling featuring a cupola. A cupola was designed but never built, due to the proximity of the monastery of Dominican friars, as it would have blocked the light in their living quarters. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eugene Son |
 Photo: Thiago Romano Mondini de Souza |
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The oldest church in the world |
Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano Rome, Rome 00184 +39 6 0669 8643 |
San Giovanni in Laterano is the oldest church in the world. It was founded by Pope Melchiade at the start of the 4th century on the ruins of the villa of the Roman family, the Laterani. The church's current appearance was created by Borromini for the 1650 Jubilee. Although he retained the 16th century ceiling and floor, the architect altered the appearance by joining pairs of columns in the central nave to make a single pillar inside. In this he built coloured marble niches and placed statues of the apostles. In 1735, Alessandro Galilei renewed the façade entirely in travertine stone and crowned it with 15 statues, and at the end of the 19th century the apse was also rebuilt. The admission to the basilica is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Yiqing Wang |
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The Roman lion |
48 Piazza San Marco Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 679 5205 SanMarcoEvangelistaalCampidoglio@VicariatusUrbis.org |
The Church of San Marco, together with the Palazzo Venezia with which it is joined, is one of the most interesting early Renaissance buildings in Rome. It dates back to 1336 and was built by Pope Mark in honor of Saint Mark the Evangelist, who is celebrated on the 25th April. The church has a 15th century portico attributed to Leon Battisti Albert. The upper open gallery is also by a famous name, having been designed by Giuliano da Maiano, while the beautiful 16th century portal is by Isaia da Pisa. The church contains numerous medieval remains including an ancient well, and the bell tower. This church belonging to the Venetian community in Rome has a lion on the ceiling to commemorate that of San Marco in Venice. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eugene Goldin |
Famous Basilicas |
San Marco 328 Piazza San Marco Venice 30124 +39 41 522 5205 / +39 41 522 5697 http://www.basilicasanmarco.it/ biblioteca.proc@patriarcato.venezia.it |
Started in the 9th century, this church's architecture shows an eastern and Byzantine influence: note the golden altarpiece and the 13th- and 14th-century mosaics that illustrate the cycles of the Bible. The magnificent domes date from the 12th century. The Basilica houses the Marciano Museum, which contains the original bronze horses, copies of which are now on the terrace. Appreciation of the architecture is available 24 hours daily; the church is open for mass and touring visitors daily. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Claborn |
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Miraculous chains |
4a Piazza di San Pietro in Vincoli Rome, Rome 00184 +39 6 488 2865 |
In the 7th century a church was built in order to house the chain from Constantinople that was said that to have been one of two used to bind St Peter when he was in prison carcere mamertino. The second chain was sent to Rome at a later date and when it was brought into the church it miraculously attached itself to the other chain. You can still see these chains under the altar, and this is how the church got its name 'San Pietro in Vincoli', meaning St Peter in chains. The church is also renowned for the tomb with the famous statue of Moses by Michelangelo, which was commissioned by Pope Julius II. Richly decorated with frescoes, the interior houses works by Guercino and Giovanbattista Parodi, as well as a beautiful mosaic icon of St Sebastian from the 7th century. The cloister, built at the end of the 15th century, is also worth visiting. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mai_luo2002 |
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 Photo: Karen Parkinson |
 Photo: Steve Slep |
 Photo: Christine Ingle |
 Photo: Andrea Magee |
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Gianicolo's pearl |
2 Piazza San Pietro in Montorio Rome, Rome 00153 +39 6 581 3940 |
This church is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. It was rebuilt on the foundations of a medieval monastery, near where St. Peter was crucified. Inside, the chapels are decorated with frescoes by the major artists of the period, including Vasari and Pomarancio, as well as work and frescoes by some of Michelangelo's best pupils. Bernini was responsible for the creation of the baroque chapel for the Raymondi family. Outside, in the centre of the cloister, is the Temple of Bramante, an exquisite Renaissance work containing the exact spot on which St Peter's cross is reputed to have been erected. Visit the crypt inside the temple, opposite the staircase by Bernini, to see the hole in the ground where the cross would have stood. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: giurrero |
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 Photo: crisis2005 |
The home of Catholicism |
Piazza San Pietro Rome, Rome 00193 +39 (0)6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) http://www.romaturismo.com/v2/... |
People come by the millions each year to receive the Pope's blessing, traditionally given on Sundays at noon. St Peter's has undergone many transformations since the original Constantine basilica of AD320. The top of its majestic dome (designed by Michelangelo), provides the best vantage point from which to marvel at Bernini's magnificent colonnade surrounding the square, the gilded bronze canopy above the altar and Michelangelo's Pietà. Bramante, Pietro da Cortona and Canova are just a handful of the many other artists who worked together on this monumental basilica's decoration and design. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Emma Breslin |
 Photo: Richard Harrison |
 Photo: Christina Krieglstei |
 Photo: Rafal Bergman |
 Photo: Joe Gormally |
 Photo: David J. Stern |
 Photo: Fiona Elmore |
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A good backdrop for weddings |
1 Piazza Pietro d'Illiria Rome, Rome 00153 |
Many couples choose to get married in this magnificent church on the Aventine hill, built in the 5th century under Pope Celestine I. Ever since St Domenic was welcomed in this church by Pope Honorius III in the 13th century, he has been patron of the Domenicans. A lot of the medieval decorations were lost after the late 16th century restorations, but successive restorers, above all the most recent, have tried to retrieve the original look of the church, even using specialised recovery equipment. Legend has it that in the cloister (1200), St Dominic planted Rome's first orange tree. The central doorway, which dates from the 5th century, is a masterpiece of carpentry. It was carved from cypress wood and cedar with scenes from both the Old and the New Testaments. The rear of the façade conserves only part of the highly refined mosaic-style decoration in marble, paintings and stucco, which used to cover the entire church. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ethan_Chen |
 Photo: cnosni |
 Photo: SEFone63 |
 Photo: B. Dell'Ariccia |
 Photo: Luca Moriconi |
The ex-Cathedral |
Vicolo scaletta S. Stefano, 2 Verona 37121 |
This is one of the oldest churches in the city. It was built by the volition of Scaglieri in the twelfth century in the place in which Teodorico knocked down the homonymous oratory in the sixth century. It became the city's Cathedral and housed the bodies of the first Bishops of Verona. The façade is made of strips of tuff and brick adorned with writing and paintings on either side of the entrance, which date back to the late middle ages around 1500. The inside is divided by basic pillars into three naves. There is a crossed vault over the apse and the crypt dates back to the tenth century. The Chapel of the Innocent (or of the Holy Martyrs) is especially evocative. Legend has it that here there are four children buried that had been killed by Herod in Bethlehem. Opening times: 11a-6:30p M-Su Services: 6:30p Monday-Friday, 6:30p Saturday. Holidays: 11a, 6:30p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Linda Chamberlain |
The stylish church |
437 Via del Corso Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 681 9171 / +39 6 687 8335 |
On the site where this majestic church now stands there was once a small church called St Ambrogio, which Pope Sixtus IV had granted to the people of Lombardy who lived in the area. When St Charles was canonised, they decided to rebuild it and call it by the names of the two patron saints of Lombardy. The magnificent cupola and apse are by Pietro da Cortona, and the altarpiece portraying the two saints is by Carlo Maratta. St Charles' heart is preserved in the chapel in the corridor behind the altar. The interior has a Gothic architectural style, which resembles the style of the Duomo in Milan. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fr. John C. Garrett |
Beautiful worship |
1 Via dei Fori Imperiali Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 699 1540 |
Many Roman churches were built on the foundations of pagan temples and this one is no exception: its vestibule is a temple dedicated to Romulus, the mythical founder of Rome, although this has never been proved. The rest of the church is shaped from a room in the Foro della Pace di Vespasiano. The apse holds a beautiful Byzantine mosaic depicting Christ descending a staircase of orange clouds against a blue background. During the Christmas period, the beautiful 1700s nativity scene with exquisitely carved Neapolitan statuettes is well worth a visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Karen Green |
The result of penitence |
Piazza della Bocca della Verità Rome, Rome 00186 |
This temple was mistakenly known as the Tempio della Fortuna Virile, but has now been identified as the Temple of Portunus, god of the river port, once located near the Emilio bridge. The importance of this well-preserved temple (perhaps because of its small dimensions) is due to its very rare Greco-Italic architecture and its age. In fact it dates back to the second half of the 2nd century BC and was renovated during the following century. It is rectangular in shape, and is built of tufa and travertine stone. It has four frontal columns, and has semicolumns built into the walls on the sides and back. The temple became a church in AD 872 and was named after Maria Egipciaca, a loose woman from Alexandria who was converted and spent the rest of her life in penitence in the desert. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lucy Danford |
 Photo: Angus Kennedy |
Temple dating back to 2nd century BC |
Piazza della Bocca della Verità Foro Boario Rome, Rome 00186 |
This temple dates back to the end of the 2nd century BC and has remained more or less intact. Nineteen of the twenty Corinthian columns which surround it survive but the trabeation and the original roof (probably a dome) are missing. The temple is commonly known as the Temple of Vesta. It was turned into a church under Christianity, and was first dedicated to S. Stefano delle Carozze and then, halfway through the 16th century, to S. Maria del Sole, because an image of the temple emanating a ray of sunlight had been found in the Tiber. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ralph Gant |
 Photo: jackieochemistry |
 Photo: terryhildred@rogers.com |
 Photo: Elisa Padilla |
 Photo: Lea Holland |
 Photo: Alan Braggins |
 Photo: Rob Hart |
The Renowned "Duomo" of Florence |
Piazza del Duomo Florence 50122 +39 055294514 |
As the city's skyline symbol, the legendary duomo is famous above all for its dome: Brunelleschi's Renaissance masterpiece, completed in 1436, created a double dome shell so that the dome is entirely self-supporting. Building started in 1296 on the site of the Roman basilica of Santa Reparata of which there are still visible remains. The existing neo-Gothic façade was added in the 19th century. Covering a massive 3600 square meters, the frescoes inside the dome depict the Last Judgement. Services: 7.30am, 9am, 10.30am, midday and 6pm Sunday. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Belinda Hedges |
 Photo: marc-ana |
 Photo: (c) 2007 K.L.Heyer |
 Photo: Ashley Weissman |
 Photo: Jack Snipe |
 Photo: Rich Hill |
 Photo: Doug |
 Photo: Jamie and Jen Beck |
 Photo: Matthew Giangrande |
 Photo: Tommy Ford |
 Photo: Annette Gray |
 Photo: kaiklen |
 Photo: Ben Eaton |
 Photo: Inga |
 Photo: Erica Reitman |
 Photo: Melissa Batson |
Seat of the Catholic Church |
Viale Vaticano Rome, Rome http://www.vatican.va |
The Vatican is among the most important historical sites in the world. The seat of the Holy Roman Catholic Church, The Vatican is also the home of the Pope. As the smallest state in the world, the Vatican has figured in key events throughout history. Occupying about one half kilometer of Rome, The Vatican is further significant because of its fabulous architecture, religious, and artistic treasures. It was Pope Julius II della Rovere in the 16th century who commissioned Michelangelo to paint the history of creation on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Among countless other notable events in the history of this important city are the convening of the College of Cardinals, at the death of a reigning Pontiff, for the purposes of electing a new Pope. No visit to Rome is complete without an excursion to The Vatican, a place so steeped in history and tradition that you will never forget it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: devon rose |
 Photo: greynforty |
 Photo: Jen K |
 Photo: Katy Cordes |
 Photo: D. J. O'Donnell |
 Photo: jill cooper |
 Photo: Alex Karel |
 Photo: Peter Macdonald |
 Photo: Reda Garza |
 Photo: Ian Abramson |
 Photo: Nancy Wilt |
 Photo: Andreas Nellas |
 Photo: David Clarke |
 Photo: Natasha Pitre |
 Photo: kp_kyak |
 Photo: Aaron Seaman |
 Photo: Marcus Grbac |
I3th Century Mosiacs and Stray Cats |
Via Torcello Venice |
Venice's main attractions are swamped with tourists in the late summer, but there are plenty of places to go to in order to avoid the crowds. Take a boat trip to the islands from Fondamente Nove or San Zaccharia and make sure you spend some time wandering around Torcello. This peaceful and green place was established between the 5th and 6th centuries and boasts of the oldest building in the lagoon. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Dell'Assunta was founded in AD 639 and contains some intriguing mosaics. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Diana Wickman |
An unusual church |
59 Via Marianna Dionigi Piazza Cavour Rome, Rome 00193 http://www.chiesavaldese.org/i... info@chiesavaldese.org |
Although sitting in a corner of Piazza Cavour beside other visually impressive buildings (like the recently renovated Adriano theatre), the Valdese church succeeds in grabbing attention with its elegance and eclectic combination of German Romanesque and Byzantine styles. The church has two cylindrical side-towers, which were built to unite the construction to the buildings on either side. The interior has no holy images - as prescribed by Valdese doctrine - while Christian symbols and floral motifs are seen in the windows. The church dates from the early 20th century, having been built shortly after the Valdese Faculty of Theology was created with its well-stocked library. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Robertson |
 Photo: Patrizio C. |
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