- Address: Piazzale Domus Plebis, Città di San Marino, San Marino
- Architectural style: neoclassicism
- Author of the project: Achille Serra
- Construction: 1826-1838.
- Opening: 1838
- Relics and Shrines: relics of Saint Marina
The Basilica of San Marino is a charming masterpiece of Italian architecture in the style of neoclassicism. You could see the outline of the basilica, if you ever held a ten cent coin, released in San Marino . And if the attraction is "placed" on a coin, it is worth seeing with your own eyes.
A bit of history
Together with the historic center of the city of San Marino , in which the basilica is located, it is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The building was built by the architect from Bologna, Achille Serra in 1826-1838. Until then, in place of the modern basilica was a medieval church, the first mention of which refers to the year 530. Already in it there was a special annex for baptism dedicated to St. Marina, and from about the 12th century the church was dedicated to the saint entirely.
By the nineteenth century, the ancient church building was recognized by the local authorities as obsolete and subject to renewal. Invited from Bologna, the architect did his work glory: a slender, reminiscent of Roman temples of the Basilica of San Marino has become a real decoration of the city, and for the faithful Catholics is also a place of worship.
Saint Marin, after whom the basilica is known, is revered as the founder and patron of one of the most ancient states of Europe - the dwarf state of San Marino. The oldest republic, a country of amazing architecture, picturesque nature and rich cuisine, San Marino , receives more and more tourists from year to year. And it's no wonder - there really is something to see here.
In the architectural plan of the Basilica of San Marino - it's pure water neoclassicism with its gravitation to ancient patterns, harmony and severity of forms. First of all, the attention of the tourist is attracted to the carved Corinthian columns, which decorate both the facade and the interior of the church. Right above the columns adorning the portico of the basilica, you can read the Latin phrase: "DIVO MARINO PATRONO ET LIBERTATIS AUCTORI SEN. PQ ", which means" Saint Marina, the patron who brought freedom. Senate and people. "
What else to see?
After the enchanted tourist recounts all sixteen columns, lined up in a semicircle inside the basilica, he will be able to see other sights of the church.
First of all, you should pay attention to the main altar, decorated with a statue of Saint Marina of Adamo Tadalini - a pupil of the famous Canova. About the skill of Tadalini says, for example, the fact that his sculptures can be seen on the Plaza of Spain in Rome or in front of St. Peter's Cathedral in the Vatican. For Catholics and patriots of San Marino, this altar has a special significance, because under it are kept the relics of Saint Marina.
Fans of antique furniture and symbols of power will be interested in another exhibit. To the left of the main altar you will find the throne of the regent, created in the beginning of the XVII century.
Having estimated the sculpture of the best student of Canova and the imposing throne, look at each of the seven altars of the basilica. Here you will find murals of the XVII and XIX centuries, as well as an organ that is already almost 200 years old.
The Basilica of San Marino is not just an architectural monument, and not even just a place for worship. Being in the center of the historical center of the republic, the basilica is the venue for the main religious and political celebrations of the country.
It is here that St. Mary's Day is brightly celebrated - on September 3, the day of the military forces of San Marino - on March 25, here the elections of the republic's leaders - the captain regents are held. So, if you have a chance to get to the basilica during a major Catholic celebration or national holiday , do not miss it. Well, if your vacation does not coincide with any of these events, you always have the opportunity to see how the services are held here - for this, come to the basilica on any day off at 11:00.
How to get there?
Getting to the Basilica of San Marino is very simple. In the historical center of the city everything is within walking distance. You can be guided by the square ( Piazza della Liberta ) with Palazzo Publico .
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