San Petronio Basilica

San Petronio Basilica, known locally as Basilica di San Petronio, is the grandest church in Bologna, Italy. Dominating the bustling Piazza Maggiore, this colossal structure, despite its incomplete state, stands as one of the largest churches in Europe. With dimensions stretching 132 meters in length and 60 meters in width, and a vault height of 44.27 meters, it is the sixth largest church in Italy. Notably, it is the largest Gothic church constructed with bricks in the world, boasting a volume of 258,000 cubic meters. Although it holds the title of a minor basilica, it is not the episcopal church of Bologna, a title reserved for the nearby Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Peter.

The History of San Petronio Basilica

The basilica is dedicated to Saint Petronius, the patron saint of Bologna. Its foundation was laid on June 7, 1390, during a solemn procession. The decision to build this grand temple was made in 1388 by the Council of Six Hundred of the Municipality of Bologna, in recognition of the efforts of Bishop Petronius in the 5th century, who was elevated to the rank of Patron of the city in 1253. This initiative marked the last great late Gothic work in Italy, beginning shortly after the construction of Milan Cathedral in 1386.

The political context of the 14th century played a significant role in the basilica's inception. The burgeoning artisan, mercantile, and professional bourgeoisie had developed a strong political consciousness, reviving the ancient myth of popular governance. This led to the formation of the first Council of Four Hundred, with sixteen gonfaloniers leading the city's organization, and later, the Council of Six Hundred. The new government quickly sought to revive the cult of Saint Petronius. Initial plans to erect a church dedicated to the saint date back to 1307, but political vicissitudes delayed its realization. By the late 14th century, several important civic buildings had been constructed, and Bologna, one of the most populous cities in Europe, could not remain indifferent to the political poles of Florence and Milan. Unlike the ecclesiastically motivated cathedrals of these cities, Bologna's basilica was a civic project, symbolizing the communal ideals of freedom and autonomy.

The Original Project and Construction

The construction of San Petronio Basilica began with the complex expropriation and demolition of numerous medieval city blocks facing Piazza Maggiore. Contrary to the construction practices of the time, the project started from the facade and moved towards the apse. Initially, the side aisles and their vaults were built, and a marble base with bas-relief panels was created on the raw brick facade. However, the original design by Antonio di Vincenzo, commissioned on February 26, 1390, remains largely unknown due to the destruction of the wooden model and drawings in 1402. The basilica's complete plan envisioned a Latin cross layout with three naves, lateral chapels, and possibly four bell towers.

Construction proceeded sporadically, with significant interruptions and political opposition. The death of Antonio di Vincenzo in 1401 left the project with only two bays, the side aisles, and four lateral chapels completed. In 1425, the Sienese sculptor Jacopo della Quercia was commissioned to decorate the main portal with reliefs, but his death in 1438 halted the work. By 1469, the basilica had reached its current length of six bays, with the temporary choir and altar located in the fourth bay.

The Bronze Statue by Michelangelo

In 1507, the Fabbricieri of San Petronio tasked architect Arduino Arriguzzi with continuing the basilica's construction, focusing on the facade's marble decoration and the minor portals. On February 21, 1508, Michelangelo's bronze statue of Pope Julius II was placed on the facade, symbolizing the papal dominance over the civically initiated basilica. However, the statue was destroyed in 1511 by followers of the Bentivoglio family, who had been ousted by Julius II. The fragments were sold to the Duke of Ferrara, Alfonso d'Este, who melted them down to create a cannon named Giulia.

Exploring San Petronio Basilica

Visiting San Petronio Basilica is a journey through history and architectural marvels. The facade, though incomplete, showcases a blend of Gothic and Renaissance elements. Inside, the vast nave and side aisles are adorned with intricate chapels, each telling a unique story through art and sculpture. The Chapel of the Magi, with its frescoes by Giovanni da Modena, depicts scenes from Dante's Divine Comedy, including a controversial representation of Muhammad.

The basilica also houses the longest meridian line in the world, designed by the astronomer Giovanni Domenico Cassini in 1655. This solar calendar, embedded in the floor, accurately measures the solar year and is a testament to the scientific advancements of the time.

Conclusion

San Petronio Basilica is not just a religious monument; it is a symbol of Bologna's rich history, civic pride, and architectural ingenuity. Its walls echo the stories of political struggles, artistic achievements, and scientific discoveries that have shaped the city. A visit to this magnificent basilica offers a glimpse into the heart of Bologna, where history and culture intertwine seamlessly.