Asti Cathedral

Asti Cathedral, officially known as Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, stands as a towering testament to the grandeur of Gothic architecture in the heart of Asti, Italy. This magnificent edifice, with its intricate designs and imposing structure, offers visitors a glimpse into the rich historical tapestry of the region. Spanning 82 meters in length and 24 meters in both height and width, Asti Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Piedmont and a paramount example of Gothic architecture in Northern Italy.

The Historical Evolution of Asti Cathedral

The origins of Asti Cathedral can be traced back to the 5th or 6th century, born out of the necessity to relocate the episcopal church within the fortified walls of Asti for both capacity and protective reasons. The initial structure likely comprised repurposed materials from demolished buildings in the episcopal area. Among these early constructions was the Church of San Giovanni, which served as a baptistery.

In 1070, a catastrophic collapse, exacerbated by a fire set by Adelaide of Susa due to disputes with the bishops of Asti, led to the ruin of the initial cathedral. Rising from the ashes, the new cathedral was consecrated in 1095 by Pope Urban II, who was passing through Asti on his return from Clermont, where he had preached the First Crusade.

The early cathedral, believed to be built in the Lombard Romanesque style with three naves, underwent significant transformations over the centuries. The first major reconstruction began in 1266 with the rebuilding of the bell tower by master mason Jacopo Ghigo. This seven-story Romanesque-Lombard tower, although reduced by one story later, still stands today.

Subsequent reconstructions saw the entire church rebuilt in a grand and ambitious project. Under the guidance of Bishop Guido di Valperga (1295-1327) and his successor Arnaldo De Rosette, the cathedral was transformed into a Gothic masterpiece. The three-nave structure, characterized by its vertical lines and pointed arches, reflects the linear Gothic style influenced by the architectural experiences of southern France.

Architectural Marvels and Artistic Treasures

The exterior of Asti Cathedral is a sight to behold. The façade, adorned with three rose windows, is complemented by two oculi and a cruciform window. The Pelletta portal, added in the late 15th century, features statues of saints such as Jerome, Peter, Paul, and Blaise, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of the period.

Inside, the cathedral is a treasure trove of artistic and architectural wonders. The magnificent Gothic portal, added in the early 14th century, is a testament to the high-quality craftsmanship of the time. The interior vaults, decorated in the early 18th century by Milanese artists Francesco Fabbrica and Pietro Antonio Pozzi, along with Bolognese artist Bocca, depict scenes from the Bible and allegories of religious orders.

The cathedral also houses the Chapel of the Epiphany, decorated by Asti artist Gian Carlo Aliberti. The altar features a golden copper statue of the Madonna Assunta by local sculptor Giovanni Groppa. The wooden choir, crafted by Asti master Salario di Moncalvo, and the grand altar in the new presbytery, adorned with frescoes by Carlo Innocenzo Carloni and Rocco Comanedi, add to the cathedral's artistic splendor.

The Bell Tower and the Cloister

The bell tower, originally constructed in 1266, was later modified in the 18th century. This Romanesque structure, with its nine bells, stands as a sentinel over the city. Adjacent to the cathedral are the remnants of a cloister, offering a glimpse into the monastic life that once thrived here.

In 1470, the Pelletta family financed the embellishment of the cathedral's antiporta or protiro, placing a marble statue of the Assumption of Mary, surrounded by six winged angel heads, to watch over the city. The grand celebrations for the feast of the Patroness have always been a highlight in Asti's chronicles, with stages erected to host singers and musicians from other parishes and even other cities.

Exploring the Cathedral's Rich Interior

Visitors to Asti Cathedral are in for a treat as they explore its rich interior. The Chapel of San Filippo Neri features the polyptych Genealogy of the Virgin by Gandolfino da Roreto, showcasing the artist's skill in depicting intricate interiors with tiled floors, barrel vaults, and coffered ceilings. Another notable work by Gandolfino is The Marriage of the Virgin, commissioned by the Alfieri bankers in the early 16th century.

The cathedral also houses a remarkable group of polychrome terracotta sculptures from the early 16th century, depicting the Lamentation over the Dead Christ. This poignant scene, featuring eight figures including Christ, the Madonna, and other biblical characters, was originally located in the Chapel of the Ascension.

Conclusion

A visit to Asti Cathedral is not just a journey through a magnificent architectural masterpiece but also a walk through centuries of history and art. From its early Romanesque beginnings to its Gothic splendor, the cathedral stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and artistic heritage of Asti. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a casual traveler, Asti Cathedral promises an unforgettable experience, echoing the stories of the past and the beauty of human creativity.