Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore
The Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore with its graceful Romanesque bell tower and crenellated defense tower is one of the most beautiful Romanesque churches in northern Italy.
General information
The structure we see today was built in the 12th century over the tomb of the patron saint of the city. On the western façade, a large rose window and a portal created by the carver Nicolò are pleasing to the eye and soul. The image of St. Zeno can be seen in the tympanum: he hands over the banner to the citizens of the free city commune. The roof of the porch on two lions protects a beautiful bronze gate (left side -XI century, right side – XII century) with scenes from the Old and New Testament.
.The interior of the church makes a huge impression with its size and decoration. A balustrade with statues of Christ and the Apostles (about 1260) separates the longitudinal nave from the altar. There is also a famous altarpiece by Andrea Mantegna (1456-1459) depicting the Madonna on the throne. Beneath the church is the crypt, its vault resting on forty-eight columns with elaborate capitals.
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