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Basilica di San Marino
In short
The main church in the small country of San Marino is Basilica di San Marino – fine example of Neo-Classical architecture. First church in this place was built more than 1500 years ago.
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GPS coordinates
Location, address
Architect
Architectural style
Year of construction
Branch of Christianity
UNESCO World Heritage status
Map of the site
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In detail
Old church
The story of this church starts in the times of Ancient Rome. In 301 AD here arrived Saint Marinus – a stonemason and Christian, persecuted not only by authorities but also by an insane woman defaming him on every possible occasion.
He chose to climb the impressive Monte Titano and live a life of a hermit, free from any state and religious officials. He built a small chapel here. Soon he was joined by other people and here was founded a monastery. San Marinese people lived proud and independent lives and by the 13th century, this was a republic with strict and democratic legislation.
The earliest mention of the church in the site of the present-day basilica is from 530 AD.
This – or a church constructed somewhat later (7th century AD) – stood here until the early 19th century. In 1586 under its altar were discovered relics of Saint Martinus testifying that this is the most sacred place in the republic indeed.
The new church
By the early 19th century the ancient church was in dire condition and was razed down in 1807. In 1826 it was decided to build a new church on the same site – it was designed by Bolognese architect Achille Serra. Construction continued for a fairly long time – until 1838.
In 1926 the church was elevated to the rank of basilica minor and in 1982 visited by Pope John Paul II.
Description
The church was designed in Neo-Classical style and is expressive representative of this style.
This is seen immediately when looking at the entrance – porch with eight massive Corinthian columns. Also, the interior represents this style – it is adorned with columns too and has a fine ceiling with barrel vaults.
Some of the more famous artworks here are a statue of Saint Marinus by the famous Adamo Tadolini and a painting by legendary Elisabetta Sirani.
Next to the church stands the bell tower which is older than the church, it is built in the 17th century.
Basilica is depicted on the ten cents coin of Sammarinese euro coins.
References
- Eve Ann Lovero, Vino Con Vista Italy Travel Guides and Events, The Cathedral of Monaco in the French Riviera and the Royal Weddings. Accessed on July 19, 2015
Linked articles
Wonders of San Marino
In this beautiful microstate can be found numerous old structures which are located in a beautiful natural setting. By far the most impressive is the ensemble of the medieval City of San Marino with its mountaintop forts, narrow streets, and medieval buildings, with a multitude of views of the surrounding landscape far below.
Churches
Throughout the millennia Christian churches have been the epitome of architecture and arts achievements in Western culture.
Religious architecture
Since ancient times human talents and skills have been expressed in religious architecture and arts, and traditions and rituals have evolved around pilgrimage sites. Religious buildings represent a major part of the highest achievements in architecture and crafts.
Recommended books
Blue Guide The Marche & San Marino: 2nd edition
Most of the world’s straw hats and plenty of its shoes come from this fascinating Italian region. With stunning sandy beaches, superb food and wine, national parks, and world-class art (Raphael was born in Urbino, the most famous city), this is a must-have guide for all independent travelers. Each chapter comes with a detailed listing of restaurants, coffee bars, and gelato parlors.
