Attraction Guide: Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Bergamo, Italy

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore Guide

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore: A Tapestry of Art, Faith, and History Guide

The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is a magnificent Romanesque church located in Bergamo's Città Alta. This stunning basilica is not only a place of worship but also a treasure trove of art and history, showcasing a blend of architectural styles and artistic masterpieces accumulated over centuries. Prepare to be amazed by its opulent interior, intricate details, and the profound sense of spirituality that permeates its walls. Construction of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore began in 1137, commissioned by the people of Bergamo as a votive offering to the Virgin Mary to protect them from the plague. The original Romanesque structure has been embellished over the centuries with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque additions. Notable features include the exterior portico with its red and white marble, the intricate wooden choir stalls designed by Lorenzo Lotto, and the stunning Colleoni Chapel, a flamboyant Renaissance masterpiece built as a mausoleum for Bartolomeo Colleoni, a powerful condottiero. Visitors to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore can admire the stunning architecture, explore the various chapels and altars, and marvel at the artistic masterpieces within. Take time to appreciate the intricate details of the wooden choir stalls and the opulent Colleoni Chapel. Attend a mass to experience the basilica as a place of worship. Guided tours are often available to provide deeper insights into the basilica's history and art. While the basilica itself doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, the surrounding Città Alta offers numerous restaurants serving traditional Bergamasque cuisine.