Imagine kings prostrating themselves right here. This is the Basilica di San Michele Maggiore. It is more than just a beautiful church. The Basilica di San Michele Maggiore stands as a testament to Pavia’s rich history.
This Lombard-Romanesque church has witnessed countless coronations. The Basilica di San Michele Maggiore has seen the rise and fall of empires. We are standing before a building that dates back to the 11th and 12th centuries. But its story begins even earlier.
Archaeological evidence suggests a church existed here in the 5th century. King Grimoald ordered a new church built between 662 and 671. This early church was dedicated to St. Michael. A fire destroyed it in 1004. Only the lower part of the bell tower remains from this era.
Construction on the current Basilica di San Michele Maggiore began in the late 11th century. It was completed by 1130. However, the vaults of the nave were replaced in 1489. Master architect Agostino de Candia designed them. His father Iacopo da Candia built the structure.
The Basilica di San Michele Maggiore has hosted many royal coronations. Berengar I was crowned here in 888. Other monarchs followed like Guy III and Louis III. Even Frederick Barbarossa was crowned within these walls in 1155. Gian Galeazzo Visconti celebrated his diploma here in 1397. He modeled the ceremony after early medieval coronations. Visconti ordered his heart to be kept in the basilica after his death.
Look at the exterior. Notice the ochre-colored sandstone. This choice of material sets the Basilica di San Michele Maggiore apart. Most churches in the area used terracotta. The facade is adorned with sandstone sculptures. They depict religious and secular themes.
Step inside the Basilica di San Michele Maggiore. Consider the Latin cross layout. A nave and two aisles stretch before you. The transept appears almost independent. Above us rises the octagonal dome. It is an early example of Lombard-Romanesque style.
The Basilica di San Michele Maggiore is a prototype. It served as a model for other churches in Pavia. San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro is one example. But San Michele stands out with its unique sandstone construction.
During renovations in 1968, workers discovered Ostrogothic silverware. These artifacts date back to the 11th and 12th centuries. They are now housed in the Pavia Civic Museums.
On the floor of the nave, you can see an inscription surrounded by four black marble circles. It is believed that the kings were crowned at this exact spot.
The Basilica di San Michele Maggiore is a place where art and history intertwine. Take a moment to appreciate the Basilica di San Michele Maggiore. It is a magnificent symbol of Pavia’s past.