The stone staircase of the church of San Pietro in Portovenere. One of the symbols of the village of Portovenere is the stone church dedicated to San Pietro. Built on the rocky spur that from the center of the town penetrates into the sea parallel to the Palmaria Island. This is a glimpse of the staircase that takes visitors to the terrace next to the bell tower.
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The first Romanesque part (1198) was followed by the Gothic part with black and white banded facing which dates back to the 13th century and was built by the Genoese, probably between 1256 and 1270. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The stone staircase of the church of San Pietro in Portovenere – L’escalier en pierre de l’église de San Pietro à Portovenere – La escalera de piedra de la iglesia de San Pietro en Portovenere – A escadaria de pedra da igreja de San Pietro in Portovenere – Die Steintreppe der Kirche San Pietro in Portovenere – Cầu thang đá của nhà thờ San Pietro ở Portovenere
The apse ceiling of Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Rome. Santa Maria sopra Minerva is one of the most important churches in Rome and is located near the Pantheon, in the Pigna district. Built in the 13th century by the Dominican Friars, it is one of the rare examples of Gothic architecture in Rome, famous for its history, art and architecture. The basilica stands on a site that was previously occupied by a pagan temple, initially attributed to the goddess Minerva, but which was actually dedicated to Isis. The name "sopra Minerva" derives from this ancient belief. The construction of the Gothic church began in 1280 and was completed at the beginning of the 14th century. Over the centuries, the church has undergone numerous modifications and restorations, while maintaining its Gothic character.
The interior of Santa Maria sopra Minerva is richly decorated and maintains its original Gothic structure. It has a three-nave plan with pointed arches and vaulted ceilings. The side aisles house several richly decorated chapels with important works of art.
The apse ceiling is particularly impressive, with a ribbed vault richly decorated with bright colors and intricate patterns. In the center of the apse is a large painting depicting religious scenes, which helps create a solemn and evocative atmosphere.
Other Elements of Interest are: the Funeral Monument of Saint Catherine of Siena (Saint Catherine of Siena is buried in the basilica, and her tomb is a place of great devotion) and Bernini's Elephant (in the square in front of the church there is an Egyptian obelisk supported by a statue of an elephant, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini; this monument is commonly known as the “Pulcino della Minerva”).
Santa Maria sopra Minerva is a place of great historical, artistic and religious importance, representing a unique example in the Roman architectural panorama for its Gothic style and the numerous works of art it houses.
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The Basilica of Santa Maria sopra Minerva (in Latin basilica Sanctæ Mariæ supra Minervam) is a minor basilica in Rome located in the Pigna district, in Piazza della Minerva, near the Pantheon. It is one of the very few examples of Gothic architecture in Rome. The basilica houses the remains of several important figures including Catherine of Siena, proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1970, the mystic painter Beato Angelico, proclaimed "Universal Patron of Artists" in 1984 and Pope Benedict XIII. Inside it preserves valuable works of art including frescoes by Melozzo da Forlì and Filippino Lippi. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The apse ceiling of Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Rome – Le plafond de l’abside de Santa Maria sopra Minerva à Rome – El techo del ábside de Santa María sopra Minerva en Roma – O teto da abside de Santa Maria sopra Minerva em Roma – Die Apsisdecke von Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Rom – Trần nhà của Santa Maria sopra Minerva ở Rome
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The altar of Santa Maria delle Vigne in Genoa. The altar of Santa Maria delle Vigne in Genoa is a significant element of the historic church located in the heart of the city's historic center. This church, which dates back to the 10th century, is one of the oldest in Genoa and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Origins: The origins of the church date back to the 10th century, when a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary was built. The church took the name "delle Vigne" because of the vineyards that once surrounded the area.
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On the high altar, the last work of Giacomo Antonio Ponsonelli (1730) designed by Pierre Puget, there is a statue of the Madonna, supported by figures of angels, by the same artist. In the presbytery there are some eighteenth-century paintings: Nativity of the Virgin by Giuseppe Cades (painted in Rome in 1784, originally intended for the church of San Carlo al Corso), Presentation of the Virgin by Giovanni David (1785) and Annunciation by Carlo Giuseppe Ratti (1787) Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The altar of the church of Santa Maria delle Vigne in Genoa – L’autel de l’église de Santa Maria delle Vigne à Gênes – El altar de la iglesia de Santa Maria delle Vigne en Génova – O altar da igreja de Santa Maria delle Vigne em Gênova – Der Altar der Kirche Santa Maria delle Vigne in Genua – Bàn thờ của nhà thờ Santa Maria delle Vigne ở Genoa – 热那亚圣玛丽亚德尔维涅教堂的祭坛 – ジェノヴァのサンタ・マリア・デッレ・ヴィーニェ教会の祭壇
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L’interno della basilica dei Santi Gervasio e Protasio a Rapallo. Una delle chiese più centrali (e grandi) di Rapallo. Qualche tempo fa vi sono entrato e sono rimaso affascinato dell’interno della Basilica. Purtroppo avevo con me solamente il cellulare e non ho potuto realizzare molte foto.
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La basilica arcipresbiteriale-collegiata dei Santi Gervasio e Protasio è un luogo di culto cattolico situato nel comune di Rapallo, tra corso Italia e piazza Matteo Canessa, nella città metropolitana di Genova. La chiesa è sede della parrocchia omonima del vicariato di Rapallo-Santa Margherita Ligure della diocesi di Chiavari. Nel maggio del 1925 papa Pio XI la elevò alla dignità di basilica minore. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The interior of the basilica of Saints Gervasio and Protasio in Rapallo – L’intérieur de la basilique des Saints Gervasio et Protasio à Rapallo – El interior de la basílica de los Santos Gervasio y Protasio en Rapallo – O interior da basílica dos Santos Gervásio e Protásio em Rapallo – Das Innere der Basilika der Heiligen Gervasio und Protasio in Rapallo – Nội thất của Vương cung thánh đường Saints Gervasio và Protasio ở Rapallo – 拉帕洛圣杰瓦西奥和普罗塔西奥大教堂的内部 – ラパッロの聖ジェルバジオとプロタシオ大聖堂の内部
The magnificent Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi. The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi is one of the most revered sites in Christianity and an architectural and artistic masterpiece. Located in the picturesque town of Assisi in Umbria, the basilica is dedicated to Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan Order, known for his life of poverty, humility and love for all creatures. The Basilica is composed of two overlapping churches, the Lower Basilica and the Upper Basilica, both filled with priceless works of art and profound spirituality. Construction of the Basilica of Saint Francis began in 1228, immediately after the canonization of Saint Francis, at the behest of Pope Gregory IX. The basilica was completed in a relatively short time: the Lower Basilica was consecrated in 1230, while the Upper Basilica was finished and consecrated in 1253.
The entrance to the Lower Basilica is through a portal decorated with intricate Gothic motifs. The interior is characterized by a secluded and spiritual atmosphere, with a series of richly frescoed side chapels. The frescoes of the Lower Basilica are attributed to great artists such as Cimabue, Pietro Lorenzetti and Simone Martini, and illustrate scenes from the life of Christ, the Madonna and Saint Francis. One of the most important points of the Lower Basilica is the crypt, which houses the tomb of Saint Francis. The tomb is a pilgrimage destination for millions of faithful from all over the world, who come to pay homage to the saint and pray at his tomb.
The Upper Basilica, built in Gothic style, is known for its brightness and its large stained glass windows that flood the interior with light. The single nave is decorated with one of the most famous fresco cycles in the history of art, attributed to Giotto and his school. These frescoes narrate the life of St. Francis in a series of 28 scenes, from his encounter with the leper to his sermon to the birds, up to his death. Giotto's frescoes are considered a milestone in Western art, marking the transition from Byzantine Mannerism to naturalistic and human representation. Each scene is characterized by extraordinary vivacity and emotional depth, making the story of the saint accessible and touching for all visitors. Adjacent to the Basilica is the Sacro Convento, a monastic complex that houses a community of Franciscan friars. The cloister of the convent is a place of great serenity, with its well-kept garden and colonnade that offers a place of reflection and prayer. The convent also houses a library and an archive that preserve manuscripts and documents of inestimable historical and spiritual value.
The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi is much more than just a historical monument; it is a place of profound spirituality and devotion. The basilica was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000, recognizing its universal value as a symbol of faith and art. Every year, the basilica welcomes millions of pilgrims and tourists who come to pay homage to Saint Francis, to pray at his tomb and to immerse themselves in the beauty of the works of art that adorn its walls. The basilica is also a place of liturgical celebrations and cultural events, which help keep alive the memory and legacy of the saint of Assisi.
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Wished by Pope Gregory IX as a specialis ecclesia, it was awarded by the same Pontiff the title of Caput et Mater of the Order of Friars Minor and at the same time entrusted in perpetuity to the same friars. It is part of the non-extraterritorial properties of the Holy See, therefore it does not enjoy diplomatic immunity. In the complex history that marked the evolution of the Order, the basilica (and the annexed Sacred Convent) was always looked after by the so-called "friars of the community", the group that later went on to form the Order of Friars Minor Conventual. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The splendid Basilic of St. Francis of Assisi – La splendide basilique de San Francesco d’Assisi – La espléndida basílica de San Francisco de Asís – A esplêndida basílica de San Francesco d’Assisi – Die prächtige Basilika San Francesco d’Assisi – Vương cung thánh đường lộng lẫy San Francesco d’Assisi
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The church of San Bartolomeo in Sestri Levante. Not far from where I live is this beautiful little church dedicated to San Bartolomeo. The area is called “della Ginestra” because I imagine, on the small mountain behind it there were many broom plants.
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According to some historical sources, it is believed that a pre-existing place of worship may have been built in a period between the 11th and 12th centuries, in the vicinity of the locality “Zenestra” (hence the current toponym “Ginestra”), included in the parish jurisdiction of the church of Santo Stefano del Ponte. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The church of San Bartolomeo in Sestri Levante – L’église de San Bartolomeo à Sestri Levante – La iglesia de San Bartolomeo en Sestri Levante – A igreja de San Bartolomeo em Sestri Levante – Die Kirche San Bartolomeo in Sestri Levante – Nhà thờ San Bartolomeo ở Sestri Levante – 塞斯特里莱万特的圣巴托洛缪教堂 – セストリ レバンテのサン バルトロメオ教会
The rose window of the facade of the Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi. A few months ago I was, together with my wife, on holiday for a few days in Umbria. One of the stops of the holiday was Assisi and obviously we could not miss a visit to the famous Basilica of which I describe a detail in this post.
The rose window of the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi is one of the most distinctive architectural features of this important place of worship. Located in the city of Assisi, in Umbria, the basilica is famous for being the main church dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan order. The rose window is located on the upper facade of the basilica, above the main portal. It is a decorative element of great artistic and symbolic value. Rose windows are typically round or polygonal and are characterized by an interweaving of colored glass that create geometric or figurative patterns.
In addition to the upper basilica, the lower basilica is also a significant site, containing the crypts where St. Francis is buried. Both parts of the basilica are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and attract visitors from all over the world for their artistic beauty and spiritual significance.
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The upper church has a simple “hut” façade. The upper part is decorated with a central rose window, with the symbols of the Evangelists in relief on the sides. The lower part is enriched by the majestic splayed portal. On the left side of the façade, in the seventeenth century, the Loggia delle benedizioni was placed, from which, in the past, the Holy Veil of the Madonna was displayed. On the same side, shortly after the construction of the upper church, the bell tower, once spire-shaped, was raised. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The rose window of the facade of the church dedicated to Saint Francis in Assisi – La rosace de la façade de l’église dédiée à Saint François d’Assise – El rosetón de la fachada de la iglesia dedicada a San Francisco en Asís – A rosácea na fachada da igreja dedicada a São Francisco em Assis – Das Rosettenfenster an der Fassade der dem Heiligen Franziskus geweihten Kirche in Assisi – Cửa sổ hoa hồng trên mặt tiền nhà thờ kính Thánh Phanxicô ở Assisi
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La cupola della Frederiks Kirke vista dalla nave. Oggi (a dire la verità diverso tempo fa) lo sguardo del mio obiettivo si è posato sulla mastodontica cupola di una delle più famose chiese di Copenaghen. Da uno dei ponti esterni della nave in cui lavoravo (la Costa Firenze) ormeggiata nel porto della capitale danese.
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La Frederiks Kirke (chiesa di Federico in danese), meglio nota come Marmorkirken (Chiesa marmorea) è una delle chiese di Copenaghen, capitale della Danimarca. Fu progettata dall’architetto Nicolai Eigtved nel 1740 insieme al Frederiksstad, il quartiere di Copenaghen in cui si trova, per commemorare il 300º anniversario dell’incoronazione del primo membro del Casato degli Oldenburg. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The dome of Frederiks Kirke, Copenhagen, seen from the ship – Le dôme de Frederiks Kirke, Copenhague, vu du navire – La cúpula de Frederiks Kirke, Copenhague, vista desde el barco – A cúpula de Frederiks Kirke, Copenhagen, vista do navio – Die Kuppel der Frederiks Kirke, Kopenhagen, vom Schiff aus gesehen – Mái vòm của Frederiks Kirke, Copenhagen, nhìn từ tàu – 从船上看到哥本哈根 Frederiks Kirke 的圆顶 – 船から見たコペンハーゲンのフレデリクス教会のドーム
The magnificent Cathedral of San Lorenzo in Genoa. The Cathedral of San Lorenzo, located in the heart of Genoa, is one of the most important and fascinating architectural testimonies of the city. This Gothic masterpiece, with Romanesque and Renaissance influences, is not only a religious symbol, but is also an important tourist attraction and a historical reference point for the Genoese. The construction of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo began in the 9th century, on the remains of an earlier paleo-Christian basilica. However, much of the current building dates back to the 12th century, when the city of Genoa was at the height of its maritime and commercial power. Over the centuries, the cathedral underwent numerous modifications and extensions, which reflect the various architectural styles that followed one another. The main portal, with its elaborate sculptural decorations, is a splendid example of Gothic art. The black and white stripes of the facade, made of marble, recall the Pisan influence and harmonize perfectly with the other Gothic and Romanesque elements of the building. The facade of the cathedral is characterized by three richly decorated portals and a large central rose window. The two bell towers, one of which is incomplete, add an element of asymmetry that contributes to the unique charm of the building. Inside, the cathedral is equally impressive. The naves are separated by marble and granite columns, and the ceilings are adorned with frescoes and decorations that tell biblical stories and local legends. Among the most significant works of art inside the cathedral, the Genoese “Holy Grail” stands out, a precious glass tray that, according to legend, was used during the Last Supper.
Another element of great interest is the Museo del Tesoro, located in the cathedral's basement. Numerous objects of inestimable value are preserved here, including relics, sacred vestments and jewels. Among the most famous treasures is the Sacro Catino, a green glass bowl that was believed to be the Holy Grail. The Cathedral of San Lorenzo is at the center of numerous religious and civil celebrations. The most important is the feast of San Giovanni Battista, the patron saint of Genoa, which is celebrated on June 24. During this day, the cathedral becomes the center of processions, religious events and celebrations that involve the entire city. The cathedral also has a history of resilience. During the Second World War, a bomb fell on the cathedral, but miraculously did not explode, thus saving the building from serious damage. This event is still remembered by the Genoese as a sign of divine protection.
The Cathedral of San Lorenzo is not only a place of worship, but a monument that tells the story of Genoa, its traditions and its art. Every corner of the cathedral, from the decorations of the facade to the internal naves, speaks of centuries of faith, culture and beauty. Visiting the Cathedral of San Lorenzo means taking a journey through time, immersing yourself in one of the most fascinating pages of Genoese history.
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The Cathedral of San Lorenzo is the most important place of Catholic worship in the city of Genoa, the metropolitan cathedral of the archdiocese of the same name. It was consecrated to the saint in 1118 by Pope Gelasius II when it was not yet finished and the facade was missing. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The magnificent Cathedral of San Lorenzo in Genoa – La magnifique cathédrale de San Lorenzo à Gênes – La magnífica Catedral de San Lorenzo en Génova – A magnífica Catedral de San Lorenzo em Gênova – Die prächtige Kathedrale San Lorenzo in Genua – Nhà thờ tráng lệ San Lorenzo ở Genoa
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L’altare della Chiesa di San Vitale a Parma. Immersa nel cuore storico di Parma, la Chiesa di San Vitale si erge con un’eleganza senza tempo, testimone silenziosa dei secoli che ha attraversato. Costruita nel XIV secolo in stile gotico, questa maestosa chiesa cattolica cattura l’attenzione di chiunque si avvicini, offrendo un’esperienza unica di bellezza architettonica e spirituale. La facciata, adornata da dettagli intricati e finemente scolpita, rivela un mix affascinante di stili artistici che spaziano dal gotico al rinascimento. Gli archi ogivali e le decorazioni floreali incorniciano l’ingresso, accogliendo i visitatori in un mondo di suggestione e storia. Il punto focale dell’interno è sicuramente l’altare maggiore, un capolavoro di intarsio e scultura. L’atmosfera di San Vitale è resa ancora più suggestiva dalla luce che filtra attraverso le vetrate colorate, dipingendo il pavimento con una tavolozza caleidoscopica di colori durante le ore del giorno. La chiesa ospita anche una collezione di opere d’arte sacra, tra cui dipinti e sculture di maestri locali, arricchendo ulteriormente l’esperienza culturale e religiosa dei visitatori. Oltre alla sua bellezza estetica, la Chiesa di San Vitale è un luogo di spiritualità e riflessione. Le sue pareti antiche sembrano custodire segreti e storie che si svelano a coloro che prendono il tempo di esplorare i suoi angoli tranquilli.
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L’abside è interamente occupata dal presbiterio, rialzato di alcuni gradini rispetto al resto della chiesa, al centro del quale si trova l’altare maggiore in marmi policromi, sormontato da un Crocifisso ligneo scolpito. Sulla volta del presbiterio vi è un affresco di Giuseppe Peroni raffigurante l’Apoteosi di San Vitale. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The altar of the Church of San Vitale in Parma – L’autel de l’église de San Vitale à Parme – El altar de la Iglesia de San Vitale en Parma – O altar da Igreja de San Vitale em Parma – Der Altar der Kirche San Vitale in Parma – Bàn thờ của Nhà thờ San Vitale ở Parma – 帕尔马圣维塔莱教堂的祭坛 – パルマのサン ヴィターレ教会の祭壇
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