Basilica of San Domenico

The Basilica of San Domenico, also known as the Basilica Cateriniana di San Domenico, stands majestically over the city of Siena in the picturesque region of Tuscany, Italy. This grand structure, with its imposing Gothic architecture, has been a significant religious and historical landmark since its inception in the 13th century. The basilica is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Siena.

The History of the Basilica of San Domenico

The origins of the Basilica of San Domenico date back to 1220 when the Dominican Order first arrived in Siena. Just a year after the death of their founder, Saint Dominic, the Dominicans were granted land on the hill of Camporegio by Fortebraccio Malavolti. The construction of the basilica began in 1226 and continued until 1265, with subsequent expansions and modifications in the following century. The basilica was built primarily using brick, a material that reflects the humble and austere values of the mendicant orders.

Throughout its history, the basilica has faced numerous challenges, including devastating fires in 1443, 1456, and 1531, military occupations between 1548 and 1552, and a significant earthquake in 1798. Despite these adversities, the basilica has retained much of its original Gothic character, thanks to various restoration efforts, particularly those led by Domenico Cinquini after the fire of 1531 and the more recent interventions in the mid-20th century.

Exploring the Basilica of San Domenico

Visitors to the Basilica of San Domenico are immediately struck by its severe and massive exterior, a hallmark of Cistercian Gothic architecture. The façade is simple and unadorned, save for a high oculus that serves as a rose window. The basilica’s imposing presence is further accentuated by its location atop the hill of Camporegio, overlooking the Fontebranda valley, the birthplace of Saint Catherine of Siena.

The interior of the basilica is equally impressive, with a layout that reflects the typical Cistercian plan. The single large nave, with its exposed wooden beams, creates a vast and open space conducive to preaching and accommodating large congregations. The transept, also with exposed beams, and the numerous vaulted chapels add to the basilica's grandeur. The vertical projection of the nave is divided into two levels, with altars on the lower level and Gothic windows with stained glass on the upper level. These stained glass windows, created by artists such as Bruno Saetti, Domenico Cantatore, Fabrizio Clerici, Giorgio Quaroni, and Bruno Cassinari, depict various scenes from the life of Saint Catherine.

The Chapel of Saint Catherine

One of the most significant parts of the basilica is the Chapel of Saint Catherine, located on the right side of the nave. This chapel was commissioned in 1466 by Niccolò Bensi to house the relic of Saint Catherine’s head. The head was separated from her body by her confessor, Blessed Raymond of Capua, after her death in Rome in 1380 and brought to Siena in 1384. The chapel is a treasure trove of Renaissance art, with frescoes by the renowned artist Il Sodoma, depicting various episodes from the life of Saint Catherine. The chapel is not only a place of veneration but also an artistic masterpiece that attracts art lovers and pilgrims alike.

The Capella del Volte

Another notable feature of the basilica is the Capella del Volte, accessible from the rear of the façade. This chapel, elevated above the basilica's floor, was once the prayer hall of the Dominican lay fraternities. It consists of two vaulted bays and was originally separated from the nave by a wall, which was removed during the 20th-century restorations. The chapel holds significant historical and religious importance, as it was in this very place that Saint Catherine received the habit of the Mantellate, the Dominican Third Order. The walls of the Capella del Volte are adorned with frescoes from the late 14th century by Andrea Vanni, a disciple of Saint Catherine, and other paintings from the 17th century depicting scenes from her life.

Other Artistic Treasures

The basilica houses numerous other artistic treasures. On the left wall of the nave, visitors can admire paintings such as Francesco Vanni's Saint Hyacinth of Poland Saving a Statue of the Virgin and the Blessed Sacrament from a Fire (1600), Alessandro Casolani's Mystical Marriage of Saint Catherine of Alexandria (19), and Rutilio Manetti's Saint Anthony Abbot Liberating a Possessed Woman (1628). The right wall features Stefano Volpi's Apparition of the Virgin to Blessed Gallerani (1630) and Alessandro Casolani's Nativity of the Virgin (1585), considered one of the finest Sienese paintings of its time.

Conclusion

The Basilica of San Domenico is more than just a church; it is a monument to Siena’s rich religious and cultural history. Its austere yet majestic architecture, coupled with its invaluable artistic and historical treasures, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beautiful city of Siena. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a pilgrim, the Basilica of San Domenico offers a profound and enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression.