The Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, majestically perched atop the Carignano hill in Genoa, is a splendid testament to the city's rich architectural heritage. Known locally as Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, this grand structure is a masterpiece of Renaissance design by the renowned architect Galeazzo Alessi. As you venture through Genoa, the basilica's striking silhouette is a constant companion, visible from numerous vantage points across the city.
The story of Santa Maria Assunta begins with the Genoese nobleman Bandinello Sauli, whose 1481 will laid the financial groundwork for its construction. However, it wasn't until 1549 that his descendants commissioned Galeazzo Alessi to bring this vision to life. The first stone was laid in 1552, and by 1564, the church was partially in use, although the grand dome wouldn't be completed until 1603.
The basilica's construction was a lengthy endeavor, earning it the local saying, A l'è comme a fabrica de Caignan (it's like the Carignano construction), symbolizing endless projects. Over the centuries, the church evolved from a family chapel to an abbey and eventually a minor basilica, a testament to its enduring significance in Genoa's ecclesiastical landscape.
Santa Maria Assunta is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture, characterized by its Greek cross plan and a central dome supported by a high drum. This design, inspired by Giuliano da Sangallo's plans for St. Peter's Basilica, marks a departure from traditional Genoese styles. The church's four identical facades, each crowned with a tympanum, create a harmonious and balanced aesthetic.
Inside, the basilica's luminous white walls are adorned with pilasters featuring intricate foliage motifs. The coffered ceilings of the domes add to the grandeur, while the central dome is supported by four colossal statues of saints, each nestled in niches at the base of the dome's pillars. The main altar, with its bronze decorations, stands in stark contrast to the otherwise pristine interior, drawing the eye with its opulent design.
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The basilica is home to several remarkable artworks. The main facade features a statue of the Assumption by Claude David, completed by Bernardo Schiaffino, flanked by statues of Saints Peter and Paul. Within the dome's pillars, you'll find statues by renowned artists such as Pierre Puget and Filippo Parodi, adding to the basilica's artistic allure.
The presbytery houses a magnificent marble and bronze altar by Massimiliano Soldani, with a bronze crucifix by Pietro Tacca. The side naves are adorned with paintings by masters like Domenico Piola and Carlo Maratta, depicting scenes from the lives of saints and biblical events.
At the rear of the basilica, above the choir loft, resides a monumental organ crafted by the Dutch Jesuit Willem Hermans between 1656 and 1660. Originally embodying a distinct Northern European baroque style, the organ underwent significant modifications in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it boasts a romantic 19th-century sound, adding a rich musical dimension to the basilica's spiritual ambiance.
Santa Maria Assunta is more than an architectural gem; it is a living part of Genoa's cultural and spiritual fabric. Over the years, it has hosted significant ecclesiastical events and served as a gathering place for the community. The basilica's forecourt, recently restored, has been the site of many poignant farewells to Genoa's notable figures, including the beloved singer-songwriter Fabrizio De André.
In conclusion, the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta is a must-visit for anyone exploring Genoa. Its architectural splendor, rich history, and artistic treasures offer a glimpse into the city's past and present, making it an unforgettable stop on your journey through this vibrant Italian city.
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