San Giovanni Cathedral

The San Giovanni Cathedral, known locally as Chiesa di San Giovanni, stands as a magnificent testament to Baroque architecture in the heart of Macerata, Italy. This splendid cathedral, completed in the early 17th century, is a beacon of history and artistry, drawing visitors into its storied walls and captivating them with its grandeur.

The History of San Giovanni Cathedral

San Giovanni Cathedral was designed by the renowned architect and canon Rosato Rosati, who also crafted the design for the Church of San Carlo ai Catinari in Rome. The cathedral's construction began in the early 1600s, and despite Rosati's death before its completion, the structure was finished in 1625. Its design reflects the typical layout of Jesuit churches, featuring a single, expansive nave flanked by deep side chapels, a towering dome, and an impressive bell tower.

The cathedral's history is marked by both triumph and challenge. The dome, a focal point of the cathedral, saw its initial construction halted in 1680 due to the collapse of the sacristy's oratory vault. It wasn't until 1764 that construction resumed, culminating in the dome's completion in 1769 under the guidance of Father Casarini. The cost of this monumental project was a staggering 7,480 Roman scudi.

In recent history, the cathedral was temporarily closed following the 2016 earthquake but was reopened and consecrated in December 2022. With the main cathedral of Macerata deemed uninhabitable, San Giovanni Cathedral was designated as the provisional cathedral of the city. In February 2023, it officially became the cathedral of the Diocese of Macerata by decree of Pope Francis.

Architectural Splendor

The façade of San Giovanni Cathedral is a masterpiece of brick and travertine marble. It is divided into three sections, with the lower part adorned with Doric pilasters, followed by a classical frieze. The upper level features Ionic pilasters topped by a simple classical pediment, creating a harmonious blend of strength and elegance.

Inside, the cathedral is a feast for the eyes. The interior is richly decorated with polychrome marbles and intricate ornaments that create a sense of depth and illusion, hallmarks of Baroque art. The first chapel houses a painting by Francesco Boniforti, the only one of his works preserved in Macerata. The second chapel on the right features two paintings attributed to Lazzaro Baldi, depicting the Glory of Saint Teresa of Avila and the First Communion of Saint Louis.

The Dome and Artistic Treasures

As you gaze upward at the intersection of the nave and the transept, the dome rises majestically, adorned with stuccoes by Bernardino Consalvi in 1777. The presbytery's paintings, including those in the apse and the dome, are the work of Pier Simone Fanelli from Ancona. The grand altarpiece, crafted by Benedetto and Antonio Rodoloni, was designed by Cosimo Morelli and completed in 1776.

One of the cathedral's most notable chapels, built between 1625 and 1628, was commissioned by Flaminio Razzanti, the general treasurer of the Marca. The altar boasts a precious frontal and a painting of the Assumption of the Virgin by Giovanni Lanfranco. The side walls feature two remarkable canvases, the Immaculate Conception and the Birth of the Virgin, which reflect the influence of Tuscan culture in the Marche region.

The Callido Organ

Music lovers will appreciate the cathedral's organ, built in 1792 by Gaetano Callido. This historic instrument adds to the cathedral's rich auditory experience, echoing through the sacred space and enhancing the spiritual ambiance.

A Living Monument

San Giovanni Cathedral is more than just a historic building; it is a living monument to faith, resilience, and artistic achievement. Its walls have witnessed centuries of devotion, creativity, and community, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting Macerata. Whether you are drawn to its architectural beauty, its historical significance, or its spiritual resonance, San Giovanni Cathedral offers an unforgettable journey through time and art.

In conclusion, the San Giovanni Cathedral is a jewel of Macerata, embodying the city's rich cultural heritage and enduring spirit. Its blend of history, art, and architecture makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore the heart of Italy's Marche region.