Co-Cathedral Basilica of St Marinus

The Co-Cathedral Basilica of St Marinus

The Co-Cathedral Basilica of St Marinus, also known as the Basilica di San Marino, is the principal Catholic church located in the City of San Marino, within the Republic of San Marino. It holds the significant status of co-cathedral for the Catholic Diocese of San Marino-Montefeltro and is dedicated to Saint Marinus, the revered founder and patron saint of the republic.

History and Construction

The current basilica stands on a site with a long religious history. An earlier church, dedicated to Saint Marinus, was erected in the 4th century, with evidence of monastic presence in the area dating back to the 9th century. The earliest direct mention of the Pieve di San Marino dates to 1113. By the early 19th century, the existing church building was in a critical state. Following its demolition in 1807, a project for a replacement was commissioned from Bolognese architect Achille Serra. The decision to build a new church on the original site was made in 1825. Construction commenced on July 28, 1826, and was completed in 1838 at a cost of 40,150 scudi and 76 baiocchi. The church was solemnly consecrated on February 5, 1838, by the Bishop of Montefeltro. In recognition of its importance, it was elevated to the rank of Basilica by Pope Pius XI on July 21, 1926.

Architectural Features

The Basilica of Saint Marinus is designed in the Neoclassical style. It features a prominent porch supported by eight Corinthian columns, bearing the Latin inscription "DIVO. MARINO. PATRONO. ET. LIBERTATIS. AVCTORI. SEN. P. Q." above. The interior comprises three naves, with sixteen Corinthian columns supporting the structure and forming a wide ambulatory around the semicircular apse. The main altar is graced by a statue of Saint Marinus sculpted by Adamo Tadolini, a student of Antonio Canova. Beneath the altar lie the relics of the saint, which were discovered in 1586. A silver and gold reliquary bust from 1602 is situated to the right of the altar. The right aisle contains a side altar dedicated to Mary Magdalene, featuring a painting by Elisabetta Sirani depicting the subject "Noli me tangere."

Religious and Civic Significance

The basilica is a focal point for numerous liturgical celebrations throughout the year. These include the semi-annual election and Investiture of the Captains-Regent (April 1 and October 1), the anniversary of the Aregno and the Sammarinese Militia (March 25), the Feast of Saint Marinus (September 3), Liberation Day and the Feast of Saint Agatha of Sicily (February 5), and the Feast of Corpus Christi. The basilica also serves as a venue for significant public events, such as musical performances. Its importance is further underscored by its depiction on the ten-cent Sammarinese euro coins. In 1992, the Holy See issued decrees to clarify its status as the mother church of all churches within the Republic, exempting it from the jurisdiction of the city's parish, with its priest holding the title of Rector. Pope John Paul II visited the basilica on August 29, 1982, to venerate the relics of Saint Marinus.