Basilica of Sant'Andrea (Mantua)

Italy / Lombardei / Mantova / Mantua
 church, basilica, interesting place
The façade, built abutting a pre-existing bell tower (1414), is based on the scheme of the ancient Arch of Trajan at Ancona. It is largely a brick structure with hardened stucco used for the surface. It is defined by a large central arch, flanked by Corinthian pilasters. There are smaller openings to the right and left of the arch. A novel aspect of the design was the integration of a lower order, comprising the fluted Corinthian columns, with a giant order, comprising the taller, unfluted pilasters. The whole is surmounted by a pediment and above that a vaulted structure, the purpose of which is not exactly known, but presumably to shade the window opening into the church behind it.
Wikipedia article: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_di_Sant'Andrea_di_Mantova
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   45°9'32"N   10°47'40"E
This article was last modified 5 years ago