Collegiata di Sant'Andrea, located in the charming town of Empoli in the province of Florence, Italy, is a magnificent example of religious architecture and a treasure trove of history. This stunning church is not only the primary place of worship in Empoli but also a pivotal landmark around which the town itself developed, dating back to its origins in the early 12th century.
The history of Collegiata di Sant'Andrea is deeply intertwined with the history of Empoli. The origins of the church can be traced back to a document from Pope Nicholas II in 1059, which conferred certain privileges to the church, defending it from the local nobility's interference. This document is one of the earliest pieces of evidence of the church's existence and its importance in the region.
In December 1119, a significant event took place that would shape the future of Empoli. Countess Emilia, wife of Guido Guerra, granted the inhabitants of the area the right to build their homes around the church and fortify them with defensive walls. This act marked the foundation of Empoli as a fortified settlement, with the church at its heart.
Over the centuries, the church underwent various transformations, reflecting the changing architectural styles and the growing importance of Empoli. By the end of the 12th century, Collegiata di Sant'Andrea had become a significant ecclesiastical center with numerous subsidiary churches under its jurisdiction.
The current structure of Collegiata di Sant'Andrea is the result of several phases of construction and renovation. The lower part of the facade is one of the few remaining elements of the original Romanesque church. In 1389, a major Gothic renovation was undertaken, which included extending the church to its current dimensions, expanding the central nave, and constructing side chapels and a transept. These works were completed by 1397.
In the 18th century, the church underwent significant modernization under the direction of architect Ferdinando Ruggeri. His project, accepted in 1735, transformed the church into a single-nave structure, elevating it and redoing the roof. The facade was also remodeled in the early 19th century by Carlo del Re, resulting in the striking appearance we see today.
Unfortunately, the church suffered extensive damage during World War II when the bell tower was destroyed. However, post-war restoration efforts have meticulously rebuilt and preserved the church, ensuring that it continues to stand as a testament to Empoli's rich history.
The facade of Collegiata di Sant'Andrea is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, characterized by its geometric and floral inlays of green serpentine from Monte Ferrato on white Carrara marble. The lower part of the facade features five blind arches, with the central one serving as the main entrance. The marble panels, with their intricate veining, add to the facade's structural and aesthetic appeal.
Between the lower and upper sections of the facade is an inscription that is crucial for dating not only this facade but also the broader Florentine Romanesque style. The upper section is adorned with flat pilasters on classical capitals and geometric patterns in serpentine, culminating in a small marble tympanum that dates back to the mid-12th century.
The bell tower, clad in terracotta, was completed in 1619 after being damaged during the Spanish siege in 1530. It was once again destroyed during World War II but was faithfully reconstructed in the post-war period, standing today as a symbol of resilience and continuity.
Step inside Collegiata di Sant'Andrea, and you will be greeted by a single nave with five chapels on each side, a deep transept, and a quadrangular apse covered by a dome. The interior is a faithful reproduction of Ruggeri's 18th-century design, following the extensive damage during World War II.
Before the war, the ceiling of the nave was adorned with the Glory of Saint Andrew, a work by Vincenzo Meucci and Giuseppe del Moro, which was unfortunately destroyed. The ceiling was later redecorated with frescoes by local artists Virgilio Carmignani and Sineo Gemignani.
Among the treasures within the church is a wooden crucifix attributed to a follower of Giovanni Pisano, dating back to the early 14th century. This crucifix, considered miraculous, played a significant role during the plague of 1399. Another notable piece is an affresco of the Redeemer by Raffaello Botticini, located on the counter-facade.
The chapels house various works of art, including an affresco of the Martyrdom of Saint Lucia by Maestro Francesco and a wooden sculpture of Mary Magdalene by Romualdo da Candeli, painted by Neri di Bicci. The presbytery, with its baroque altar in polychrome marble, adds to the church's grandeur.
In conclusion, Collegiata di Sant'Andrea is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum that encapsulates the history, art, and spiritual heritage of Empoli. Its walls, adorned with centuries-old artworks, and its structure, a blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements, tell the story of a community that has thrived around this sacred space for nearly a millennium. A visit to this remarkable church is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Empoli's past and its enduring legacy.
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