Basilica of St. Mary Major

The Basilica of St. Mary Major, known locally as Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore, stands proudly in the heart of Vercelli, Italy, as a testament to the city’s rich religious and architectural heritage. This magnificent structure, with its neoclassical façade and storied past, invites visitors to step back in time and explore a piece of Vercelli's historical tapestry.

The History of the Basilica of St. Mary Major

The origins of the Basilica of St. Mary Major trace back to the 18th century when the Jesuits commissioned the renowned architect Filippo Juvarra in 1734 to design a new church dedicated to the Holy Trinity. This grand project was intended to complement their newly constructed college. However, the Jesuit order was suppressed in 1773 by Pope Clement XIV, and the church, along with the college, came under the ownership of the Savoy state.

The local archdiocese saw an opportunity and proposed a swap, exchanging the unfinished church with the ancient Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, which was in dire need of restoration. Thus, in 1775, the new church assumed the name and title of the Basilica of St. Mary Major and was reopened for worship. The façade, a striking feature of the basilica, was completed in 1779 under the guidance of engineer Battista Sassi. The interior decorations were not finalized until 1861, when architect Giuseppe Locarni, supervised by Count Edoardo Arborio Mella, oversaw the restoration and completion of the church's ornate interior.

Exploring the Basilica of St. Mary Major

As you approach the Basilica of St. Mary Major, the first thing to capture your attention is its imposing neoclassical façade. The design, characterized by four grand pilasters and topped with a triangular pediment, creates an aura of solemnity and elegance. The façade's height might seem overwhelming, yet it perfectly complements the church’s grandeur.

Upon entering, visitors are welcomed into a single nave, a hallmark of Jesuit architectural style. The interior is adorned with four side altars dating back to the 18th century, each a masterpiece of religious art and devotion. The semicircular apse houses an impressive high altar crafted from Carrara marble in 1861, embellished with intricate stucco decorations. Above this altar, a grand altarpiece depicting the Assumption of the Virgin captivates all who gaze upon it.

The Art and Treasures Within

One of the basilica's hidden gems is found in its sacristy—a revered painting known as the Madonna delle Grazie. According to tradition, this artwork was a gift from Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, to the original Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Although the painting has undergone numerous restorations over the centuries, it is believed to be a Romanesque piece dating back to the 11th or 12th century.

To the left of the entrance, the winter chapel offers a quiet space for reflection, while to the right, the baptismal font stands as a symbol of new beginnings. Each corner of the basilica tells its own story, inviting visitors to explore and discover the layers of history embedded in its walls.

Legends and Mysteries

Adding to the allure of the Basilica of St. Mary Major are the legends surrounding its crypts. It is said that beneath the crypts, where many significant ecclesiastical figures are interred, lies a lower level reserved for a common burial ground. Access to this mysterious layer is rumored to be through hidden trapdoors scattered throughout the crypt, sparking the imagination of those who walk these sacred halls.

In conclusion, the Basilica of St. Mary Major is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of Vercelli’s spiritual and architectural journey. Its walls echo with the prayers of centuries and its art speaks volumes of the devotion and craftsmanship of ages past. For those visiting Vercelli, a stop at this remarkable basilica is not just recommended—it’s essential to truly grasp the city’s historical and cultural essence.