Acqui Cathedral

Acqui Terme, Italy

While the bishopric has been established since at least the 4th century, the present Acqui Cathedral building was begun under bishop Primo (989-1018) and was consecrated in 1067 by bishop Guido. The ground plan is in the shape of a Latin cross, and there are five aisles (but until the 18th century, only three), terminating in three semi-circular apses. Of the Romanesque structure there still remain visible the apses, the transept, and the crypt, which underlies both the transept and the choir. The remainder has been subject to further work in later centuries.

The terracotta bell tower was finished in 1479, and the bells moved from the old campanile. The main entrance in marble, by Giovanni Antonio Pilacorte, dates from 1481, and the rose window above it from around the same date, while the portico is 17th century. The interior was re-fitted in Baroque woodwork, and was decorated with frescos and stucco work from the 17th to the 19th centuries.

Next door are the canons' cloisters of the late 15th century, and some Roman ruins.

The 19th century pulpit and the Baroque altar of Saint Guido in the transept are worthy of note. The most important work of art in the cathedral by far however is the triptych of the Madonna di Montserrat, the Annunciation to the Virgin of Montserrat, the work of the 15th century Spanish painter Bartolomé Bermejo, in the chapter house.

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Details

Founded: 1067
Category: Religious sites in Italy

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

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User Reviews

AN D (3 years ago)
Amazing. While looking around silently an older man came up to me and bade me to follow him into a room he had to unlock. Fearing but God (not death nor the devil), I followed him and was rewarded with access to the beautiful (folding)altar you see in the pictures. There are nice flyers available of that there too. Caring trust is still worth it :) p.s.: The picture of the ceiling is not showing God high-fiving (as it seemed at first), but the expulsion of Luzifer btw.
veronica usseglio (3 years ago)
Superb cathedral in Romanesque style, it houses the triptych of the Annunciation by the Flemish painter Bartolomé Bermejo. I thank Mrs. Giovanna who with great passion guided us to discover this wonder.
Roberta Veronelli (3 years ago)
Originally in Romanesque style it has been completely restored. Inside the church there is the triptych of the Annunciation or the Madonna of Monserrat by the Catalan painter Bartolomé Bermejo.
Rosa Quaranta (4 years ago)
Beautiful cathedral even if it has been restored in various periods. Under the main altar there is a wonderful crypt where Mass can be celebrated. The Cloister is a mystical and peaceful place
Elena Sisti (4 years ago)
Lovely Place. Do not forget to listen to the guide.
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