Basilica di S.Maria degli Angeli
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Basilica di S.Maria degli Angeli
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Its airy and elegant outline soars in the centre of the northern valley of Umbria. This is one of the largest churches in Christianity. It is 75 meters high (from the ground to the top of the cupola), 126 meters long and 65 meters wide. Construction started on 25 March 1569 and the first stone was laid by Filippo Geri, bishop of Assisi. The plans were drawn up by Perugia architect Galeazzo Alessi (with the advice of Vignola and Giuli Danti). The work was not completed until 1679. The base of the facade was poured at the end of the sixteenth century. It was damaged extensively following the earthquake in 1832 and was reconstructed by Luigi Poletti. The current neo-Renaissance facade with the portico was added between 1924 and 1930, based on the plans of Cesare Bazzani. In 1930, the gilt statue of Our Lady of the Angels was set on top of the basilica. It is the work of sculptor Colasanti, and in 1948 many pilgrims swore that they saw it move. |
The square in front of the basilica was not completed until 1950 (architect Nicolosi). The cupola, also by Galeazzo Alessi, was completed in 1680. The bell tower was completed during the same period, although with substantial changes with respect to the original project. |
