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The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore) is one of the most important churches in Bergamo. It’s located in Upper Town (Città Alta) on Piazza del Duomo, just opposite Piazza Vecchia.
History
The church dates back to 1137, when it was constructed on the site of an 8th century church, and before that, a Roman temple. It took a few centuries to complete and was restored in the 17th century. The bell tower was built between 1436 and the end of the 15th century.
Exterior
The exterior of Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is mostly Romanesque architecture. It’s possible to see the remains of some original frescoes on the side of the building just across from the Bergamo Cathedral, but they’ve mostly faded away.
Entrance
The main entrance to the basilica is on Piazza del Duomo. It was created by Giovanni da Campione in 1353 and sits just to the left of the Colleoni Chapel (Cappella Colleoni). The columns are supported by marble lions. Above the arch are statues of Saint Vincent, Saint Alexander of Bergamo, and Saint Barbara. Above those statues are three more statues of the Madonna and Child, Saint Esther, and Saint Grata.
Interior
Once inside the church, you’ll quickly notice the extravagant Baroque artwork on the ceiling and arches. This dates back to the church’s restoration in the 17th century. A 14th century crucifix hangs above the altar.
There are tapestries on the wall depicting scenes from the Bible as well as many paintings and frescoes. The frescoes date back to 1347 and depict The Last Supper and the Tree of Life among other scenes. You’ll also find a stunning confessionary carved in 1704 by Andrea Fantoni.
Tombs
There are three tombs in the church. The one to the left of the entrance belongs to Cardinal Guglielmo Longhi (1240/45-1319) and was carved by Ugo da Campione between 1313-1320. The other two belong to composer Gaetano Donizetti (1797-1848) and his master, German composer Simon Mayr (1763-1845). Donizetti’s tomb was carved by Vincenzo Vela in 1855 while Mayr’s tomb was completed in 1855.
