Cortona Cathedral
Toscana
Cortona Cathedral, known locally as Duomo di Cortona, is a Roman Catholic co-cathedral located in the Tuscan town of Cortona, Italy. Dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, it served as the seat of the Bishops of Cortona from 1507 until 1986 and now forms part of the Diocese of Arezzo-Cortona-Sansepolcro. The cathedral was built over an ancient Roman temple's remains and was first mentioned as a plebeian church in the 11th century. Although the diocese of Cortona was created in 1325, the cathedral only became the bishop's seat in 1507 by papal decree. The interior was refurbished in the late 15th century to prepare for this elevation. Architecturally, the cathedral blends medieval origins with later additions, including an 18th-century barrel-vaulted nave ceiling repainted by Giovanni Brunacci in the 19th century, oval windows, and a triumphal arch. The Romanesque façade retains some original elements such as a pier with capital and small corner columns. The church features a central nave flanked by two aisles with columns inspired by Brunelleschi. The south side includes a late 16th-century loggia, and the bell tower dates from the mid-16th century. Inside, notable artworks include Pietro da Cortona's "Adoration of the Shepherds" (circa 1663), Andrea Commodi's "Consecration of the Church of the Holy Saviour" (1607), and Tommaso Bernabei's "Descent of the Holy Spirit" (1528-1529). The nearby Diocesan Museum houses important works formerly in the cathedral, such as Pietro Lorenzetti's "Maestà" (before 1320) and Renaissance period tapestries and reliquaries. This blend of art, history, and architecture makes Cortona Cathedral a unique cultural landmark in Tuscany.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Cortona Cathedral is during the spring and early autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the town is less crowded. Visitors are advised to check opening hours in advance and consider purchasing tickets or guided tours through the local tourist office to enhance the experience. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Modest dress is recommended as it is an active place of worship.
Faits intéressants
- •The cathedral is built atop the remains of an ancient Roman temple, linking it to the town's classical past.
- •Giovanni Brunacci, a local artist, repainted the nave's barrel-vaulted ceiling in the late 19th century.
- •The cathedral houses artworks by prominent artists including Pietro da Cortona and Andrea Commodi.
- •The bell tower dates back to the mid-16th century, reflecting Renaissance architectural influence.
- •The nearby Diocesan Museum preserves important artworks originally from the cathedral, including Pietro Lorenzetti's Maestà from before 1320.
Histoire
Cortona Cathedral was originally built over the remains of an ancient Roman temple and first documented as a plebeian church in the 11th century.
The diocese of Cortona was established in 1325, but the cathedral only became the bishop's seat in 1507 when Pope Julius II transferred it from the church of San Vincenzo.
Prior to this, the adjoining building served as the bishop's residence.
The late 15th century saw significant interior refurbishments preparing the cathedral for its new status.
Over the centuries, architectural modifications such as the 18th-century barrel-vaulted ceiling and 16th-century loggia and bell tower were added, reflecting evolving styles and the cathedral's importance in the region.
Guide du lieu
Romanesque Façade11th century
The façade retains original medieval elements such as a pier with a capital and small corner columns, showcasing the cathedral's Romanesque origins.
Nave and Ceiling18th century (ceiling), late 19th century (repainting)
The central nave features an 18th-century barrel-vaulted ceiling that was repainted in the 19th century by Giovanni Brunacci, adding artistic and historic value.
South Loggialate 16th century
Built in the late 16th century, the south side loggia is an architectural addition that enhances the cathedral's external appearance and offers a sheltered walkway.
Bell Towermid-16th century
Dating from the mid-16th century, the bell tower is a prominent feature reflecting the Renaissance style of the cathedral's later additions.
Notable Artworks16th-17th century
Inside the cathedral are significant artworks including Pietro da Cortona's 'Adoration of the Shepherds' (c. 1663), Andrea Commodi's 'Consecration of the Church of the Holy Saviour' (1607), and Tommaso Bernabei's 'Descent of the Holy Spirit' (1528-1529).
Contact
Téléphone: 0575 603217
