In the heart of Milan, dwarfed by the modern Palace of Justice, stands the Chiesa di San Pietro in Gessate. Don’t let its unassuming exterior fool you. This church, built in the 15th century, holds captivating tales within its ancient walls. The Chiesa di San Pietro in Gessate is a beautiful example of the Lombard architectural style of that period. As you step inside, imagine the Portinari brothers, influential figures in the Milanese branch of the Medici Bank, commissioning its construction. They envisioned a grand space, and the architect, Guiniforte Solari, delivered. Notice the similarities to Solari’s other masterpiece, Santa Maria delle Grazie. The high, vaulted ceilings, the elegant columns, the light streaming through the stained glass – it’s a feast for the senses. But the true treasures of Chiesa di San Pietro in Gessate lie in its chapels. Seek out the Grifi Chapel. There, you’ll find a chilling masterpiece: the tomb of Ambrogio Grifi, a prominent figure in the court of Ludovico Sforza. Grifi’s likeness, sculpted with startling realism, lies in eternal repose. Above him, vibrant frescoes depict scenes from the life of St. Ambrose, painted by the talented duo Butinone and Zenale. The Chiesa di San Pietro in Gessate, a silent witness to centuries of history, leaves a lasting impression with its blend of architectural grandeur and artistic treasures.
Chiesa parrocchiale di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola
“A church built in just a year?” you might ask, eyebrows raised. Yes, indeed! The Chiesa parrocchiale di Sant’Ignazio di