Basilica of San Gaudenzio

The Basilica of San Gaudenzio, known locally as Basilica di San Gaudenzio, stands proudly in the heart of Novara, Italy, as a testament to architectural brilliance and historical significance. This magnificent basilica is renowned for its towering dome, a masterpiece by the celebrated architect Alessandro Antonelli, which soars to an impressive height of 121 meters, making it a prominent feature of the Novara skyline.

The History of the Basilica of San Gaudenzio

The origins of the Basilica of San Gaudenzio date back to the early Middle Ages. The first church dedicated to Saint Gaudenzio was established in 841 at the beginning of what is now Viale XX Settembre. This early structure was reconstructed and consecrated anew in 1298. However, the Spanish forces of Charles V transformed Novara into a military stronghold between 1552 and 1554, leading to the demolition of all buildings outside the city walls, including the basilica.

The miraculous escape of Novara from the plague in 1576 spurred the decision to rebuild the basilica at the city's highest point, at the north-west corner of the walls. This location was previously occupied by a church dedicated to Saint Vincent Martyr, which was demolished to make way for the new basilica. Only three chapels, including the one dedicated to Saint George, survived the demolition and temporarily housed the relics of Saint Gaudenzio.

The renowned architect Pellegrino Tibaldi was commissioned to design the new basilica. His vision is evident in the building's pronounced verticality and the dynamic plasticity of its facade and sides, accentuated by niches, large windows, and powerful columns. Construction began in May 1577, and the basilica was consecrated on December 13, 1590, by Bishop Cesare Speciano, even though the transept and presbytery were not yet completed. Economic difficulties, plagues, and wars delayed the construction, which resumed in 1626 and concluded in 1656. The basilica was finally completed on June 11, 1711, with the solemn deposition of Saint Gaudenzio's relics in the crypt.

Architectural Marvels

The entrance to the basilica is marked by monumental proportions, featuring a walnut door adorned with rosettes and iron heads, crafted by Alessandro Antonelli. The basilica's layout follows a Latin cross plan with a single nave flanked by six interconnected side chapels, a spacious transept, and a deep presbytery. Suspended in the center of the nave is an enormous chandelier with wrought-iron flowers, commemorating the meeting between Saint Gaudenzio, Bishop of Novara, and Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan. This chandelier is also a symbol of the annual offering of wax by 59 surrounding municipalities and 12 patrician houses. Every January 22, during the patronal feast dedicated to Saint Gaudenzio, the chandelier is lowered, and the iron flowers are replaced with fresh ones brought in procession.

The Side Chapels

The basilica's side chapels are rich in artistic and historical significance. The first chapel on the right is the Chapel of the Good Death, featuring a painting of the Deposition of Jesus by Moncalvo and frescoes by Morazzone. The second chapel on the right, the Chapel of the Circumcision, houses a large Baroque wooden frame enclosing a painting of Jesus' circumcision by Giovan Battista Della Rovere, known as Il Fiammenghino. The Chapel of the Crucifix contains a crucifix traditionally attributed to Gaudenzio Ferrari, originally from the demolished basilica outside the walls, and angels by Grazioso Rusca. The left side of the nave features the Chapel of the Madonna of Loreto, with frescoes by Stefano Legnani and a nativity scene fresco by Bernardino Lanino. The Chapel of the Nativity boasts a grand polyptych by Gaudenzio Ferrari, depicting the Annunciation, Nativity, and various saints. The Chapel of the Guardian Angel, adorned with frescoes by Tanzio da Varallo, includes a notable painting of the Battle of Sennacherib.

The Transept and Presbytery

The transept and presbytery are equally impressive. The right transept leads to the octagonal Chapel of the Crypt, accessible only during the patronal feast. This chapel, designed by Ticinese architect Francesco Castelli, features exquisite steel and bronze doors, precious marble cladding, and bronze decorations. The richly adorned altar holds the silver and crystal urn containing the body of Saint Gaudenzio, surrounded by statues of saints by Carlo Beretta. The presbytery's highlight is the Baroque high altar, embellished with marble and bronze decorations by Carlo Beretta and other renowned artists. The left wall of the presbytery features a marble chair for the bishops, and the left transept houses a large painting by Pelagio Palagi, depicting Saint Adalgiso donating Cesto's assets to the basilica's canons. The right transept provides access to the sacristy, where a painting of Saint Jerome attributed to Spagnoletto can be admired. The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, accessible from the left transept, contains eight panels depicting scenes from the life of Saint Gaudenzio by Giovan Mauro Della Rovere.

The Bell Tower and the Sala del Compasso

The bell tower, designed by Benedetto Alfieri, offers visitors a unique experience. Ascend via the ancient stairs or a modern elevator to reach the Sala del Compasso, located in the church's attic. This room houses the ancient compass used by Antonelli to design the dome's vaults in a 1:1 scale. Recently restored and opened to the public in January 2013, the Sala del Compasso is the first step in a museum itinerary that culminated in August 2021 with the opening of the climb to the dome. Visitors can now explore the dome, even at night, equipped with helmets and harnesses, from a height of 100 meters.

The Chapel of Saint George

The Chapel of Saint George, which survived the demolition of the Church of Saint Vincent, is located at the base of the transept and can only be accessed from outside the basilica. Restored in 2007, the chapel's 15th-century decorative apparatus, attributed to the workshop of Giovanni De Campo, has been partially recovered. This chapel housed the body of Saint Gaudenzio from 1553 to 1711 before it was transferred to the crypt.

The Basilica of San Gaudenzio is not just a place of worship; it is a treasure trove of art, history, and architectural marvels. Its towering dome, intricate chapels, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Novara, offering a glimpse into the city's past and its enduring legacy.