Belluno Cathedral
Belluno-Feltre·Roman Catholic·Italy
Belluno Cathedral, officially the Basilica Cathedral of Saint Martin, is the principal Roman Catholic church in Belluno, Veneto, Italy. It serves as the episcopal seat for the Diocese of Belluno-Feltre and was elevated to a minor basilica in 1980. The current Renaissance structure was built between 1517 and 1624, replacing an earlier church.
Key Facts
- ›The present cathedral was constructed between 1517 and 1624, designed by Tullio Lombardo in the Renaissance style.
- ›The campanile, a Baroque structure, was built between 1732 and 1743 and designed by Filippo Juvarra.
- ›The interior features three naves with pilasters that exhibit Gothic tendencies despite the overall Renaissance design.
- ›Notable artworks within the cathedral include paintings by Gaspare Diziani and Egidio Dall'Oglio, and a fresco by Antonio Ermolao Paoletti.
- ›The campanile stands 71.98 meters high, including a 4.63-meter angel statue at its apex.
- ›The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Martin.
- Renaissance Design By Tullio Lombardo
- Baroque Campanile By Filippo Juvarra
- Interior With Gothic Tendencies In Pilasters
- Paintings By Gaspare Diziani and Egidio Dall'Oglio
- Fresco By Antonio Ermolao Paoletti
- Angel Statue Atop the Campanile
Tullio Lombardo, Filippo Juvarra, Andrea Brustolon
About Belluno Cathedral
Belluno Cathedral: A Renaissance Masterpiece
Belluno Cathedral, officially known as the Basilica Cathedral of Saint Martin, is the principal Roman Catholic cathedral situated in the historic heart of Belluno, Veneto, Italy. It holds significant importance as the episcopal seat for the Diocese of Belluno-Feltre. In recognition of its spiritual and architectural value, it was elevated to the status of a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II on June 18, 1980.
History and Construction
The site of the present-day cathedral has a long religious history, with evidence of a palaeo-Christian church. A subsequent church dedicated to Saint Martin was documented around 850. The current majestic structure was erected between 1517 and 1624, following plans by the renowned architect Tullio Lombardo, embodying the principles of the Renaissance style. The cathedral's striking cupola was a later addition, completed in 1756. The impressive campanile, a distinct Baroque element, was constructed between 1732 and 1743 and is attributed to the architect Filippo Juvarra.
Architectural Features
The exterior of Belluno Cathedral presents an unfinished west front, constructed of stone and divided vertically into three sections flanked by lower wings. The lower part features a rich Baroque portal and two Gothic windows. The upper section, culminating in a tympanum, is adorned with a central rose window. The interior is characterized by its grandeur and Renaissance lines, though the height of its pilasters lends a Gothic influence. It comprises three naves with six spans each. The presbytery is notable for its triple rows of stalls, and the cupola contributes to an airy and light atmosphere within the cathedral. The semi-circular apse is graced by a fresco depicting the Assumption, created by Antonio Ermolao Paoletti.
Artistic Treasures and the Campanile
Belluno Cathedral is home to several significant works of art. Two paintings by Gaspare Diziani, known for their compositional complexity, depict "Saints Charles Borromeo, Francis de Sales, Cajetan and Andrew Avellino" and "The Conversion of St Paul." An altar in the northern nave showcases "The Holy Family," a painting by Egidio Dall'Oglio. The cathedral also houses an organ built by Mascioni in 1946. The Baroque campanile, standing at the sacristy's exit, is a significant landmark. Designed by Filippo Juvarra, it reaches a height of 71.98 meters, including the striking 4.63-meter wooden angel covered in copper, created by Andrea Brustolon.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Belluno Cathedral built?
The present structure of Belluno Cathedral was built between 1517 and 1624. The cupola was completed later, in 1756, and the campanile was constructed between 1732 and 1743.
What is the architectural style of Belluno Cathedral?
The main construction of Belluno Cathedral was planned in the Renaissance style by Tullio Lombardo. However, the interior's pilasters show a tendency towards Gothic, and the campanile is a Baroque structure.
Who designed the campanile of Belluno Cathedral?
The Baroque campanile of Belluno Cathedral was designed by the Messinese architect Filippo Juvarra.
What are some notable artworks inside Belluno Cathedral?
Belluno Cathedral houses several notable artworks, including two complex paintings by Gaspare Diziani depicting religious scenes, a fresco of the Assumption by Antonio Ermolao Paoletti in the apse, and a painting of the Holy Family by Egidio Dall'Oglio.
What is the height of the campanile?
The campanile of Belluno Cathedral measures 71.98 meters in height, including the copper-covered wooden angel atop it, which stands 4.63 meters tall.
Related Cathedrals
Angers Cathedral
Angers Cathedral, officially Cathédrale Saint-Maurice d'Angers, is a Catholic cathedral in Angers, France, serving as the seat of the Bishops of Angers. Renowned for its blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, it also features significant Baroque elements and an exceptional collection of stained-glass windows, some dating back to the late 12th century.
Amalfi Cathedral
Amalfi Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, is a medieval Roman Catholic cathedral located in Amalfi, Italy. It is renowned for its elaborate architecture, a blend of various historical styles, and for housing the relics of the Apostle Saint Andrew. The cathedral has been an important religious center and a significant landmark of the Amalfi Coast for centuries.
Basilica of San Pietro di Castello
The Basilica of San Pietro di Castello is a Roman Catholic minor basilica in Venice, Italy, located on the island of San Pietro di Castello. Originally founded in the 7th century and serving as the city's cathedral from 1451 to 1807, it underwent significant alterations by prominent architects, including Andrea Palladio's designs for its facade and interior. Despite falling into disrepair and suffering damage, it has been restored and remains an active place of worship.