Conegliano cathedral

Welcome to the magnificent Conegliano Cathedral, locally known as Duomo di Conegliano, a beacon of religious and architectural splendor nestled in the heart of Conegliano, Italy. This historic cathedral, with its towering campanile and intricate frescoes, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region.

The History of Conegliano Cathedral

The origins of Conegliano Cathedral date back to the 14th century when it was initially established as Santa Maria dei Battuti. It was consecrated on June 5, 1491, and later dedicated to Santa Maria Annunziata and Saint Leonard, the patron saint of the city. The original cathedral, dedicated to Saint Leonard, was situated atop the hill within the castle complex but was transferred to its current location in 1757.

The Exterior

The facade of Conegliano Cathedral is an architectural marvel hidden behind the grand palazzo of the Scuola dei Battuti. This Renaissance building features an expansive portico with ogival arches and a wooden beam ceiling, leading visitors into the cathedral through a centrally located portal. The wooden door, framed by a stone arch adorned with floral motifs, is crowned by a lunette containing a 16th-century fresco by Francesco Beccaruzzi. This well-preserved artwork depicts the Madonna and Child, surrounded by saints, against a neutral backdrop.

Flanking the facade are two full-arched openings that provide glimpses of the cathedral's lateral naves. These passages, gated but accessible, lead to the Sala dei Battuti and the right-side entrance of the church. The semicircular apse, integrated into the old sacristy buildings, adds to the cathedral's historical charm.

The Bell Tower

The bell tower of Conegliano Cathedral, constructed in 1497, is a striking square structure with brick faces and a double-wall design. It culminates in a terrace with a balustrade, topped by a wide onion dome and a small lantern crowned by a cross. The tower's elegance is accentuated by five openings on each side at the belfry level, consisting of a trifora supported by Doric columns and two oculi above.

The southern face of the tower, overlooking the Contrada and the city center, features a large clock with black hands set against a yellow background. Below the clock, a Latin inscription reads, VULNERANT OMNES, ULTIMA NECAT, meaning All wound, the last kills, a poignant reminder of the passage of time.

The Bells

The bell tower houses a set of four bells, plus a small ancient bell rung before religious services. The three smaller bells signal the pre-festive and festive Mass, while the largest bell marks the canonical hour of 9:00 AM from Monday to Saturday and the Angelus at noon. On Fridays at 3:00 PM, the bell tolls to commemorate Christ's death on the cross. During solemnities, the three smaller bells are replaced by the three larger ones, and on special occasions like Christmas, Easter, and the feast of Saint Leonard, all four bells ring in unison.

The largest bell, named Maria, weighs nearly 2,000 kg and has a diameter of about 150 cm. It was first cast in 1918 by the De Poli Foundry and recast in 1940. The bell bears inscriptions that translate to I call upon God, I call the living, I mourn the dead, I break the lightning. The other bells, named Leonarda, Ursula, and Antonia, were all cast by the De Poli Foundry in 1921 and bear inscriptions reflecting their historical significance and resilience.

The Interior

Inside, Conegliano Cathedral reveals a blend of architectural styles from different eras. The interior is divided into three naves by two rows of pointed arches supported by Ionic columns and pillars. Above the arches runs a painted cornice, with a full-arched window above each arch. The ceiling features cross vaults, partially adorned with 15th-century decorations by Jacopo Collet da Arten and Desiderio da Feltre.

Of particular note are the frescoes on the central pillars, depicting Saint Stephen and Saint Lawrence, which were rediscovered during 20th-century restorations. The central nave leads to an elevated presbytery, accessed through a large arch and three steps. The presbytery, covered by a barrel vault with side openings, is bathed in natural light, enhancing its serene ambiance. The altar, a simple rectangular table, is flanked by a marble structure holding the tabernacle and a row of candlesticks.

Behind the presbytery lies the apse, adorned with the magnificent altarpiece by Cima da Conegliano, a large oil painting that is the cathedral's central artistic treasure.

The Artistic Heritage

The cathedral's walls are adorned with oil paintings by renowned artists. Above the entrance portal hangs a painting by Palma il Giovane, depicting Saint Catherine being baptized by the Hermit, originally from the Church of Santa Caterina in Venice. Francesco Ruschi's medium-sized paintings, Moses Trampling the Crown and The Finding of Moses, flank the portal.

Francesco Beccaruzzi, a native of Conegliano, left a significant mark with his large altarpiece, Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata and Saints, which arrived at the cathedral from Venice after the demolition of the Church of San Francesco. Another notable work by Beccaruzzi, attributed to him, is Saint Mark between Saint Leonard and Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a minor work from 1530.

Francesco Frigimelica the Elder also contributed to the cathedral's artistic heritage, adding to the rich tapestry of historical and religious art that makes Conegliano Cathedral a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

In conclusion, Conegliano Cathedral is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of art and history. Its walls and towers echo the stories of centuries past, offering visitors a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heart of Conegliano. Whether you are drawn by its religious significance, its architectural beauty, or its artistic treasures, a visit to Conegliano Cathedral promises to be an unforgettable experience.