Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna
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Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna

4.6
·877 reviews·Piacenza, Italy

A Renaissance architectural gem housing breathtaking Pordenone frescoes, with a unique history as a Crusade starting point.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better art viewing

CrowdLow
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Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna

Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better art viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A Renaissance architectural gem housing breathtaking Pordenone frescoes, with a unique history as a Crusade starting point.

4.6
(877 reviews)

"Those Pordenone's frescos will make you understand what the genius/talent can reach."

Vertical photo
TIP

Allow ample time

Don't rush! Soak in the incredible frescoes; they are the main draw. :camerawithflash:

Look for Pordenone's work

Seek out the astonishing frescoes by Pordenone – they are truly breathtaking. :art:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pordenone's Frescoes

Pordenone's Frescoes

Breathtaking Renaissance frescoes by Pordenone that will leave you in awe of artistic genius.

Madonna della Campagnola

Madonna della Campagnola

The miraculous wooden image that inspired the construction of this magnificent Renaissance church.

Renaissance Architecture

Renaissance Architecture

A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture designed by Alessio Tramello, showcasing the full maturity of the style.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the intricate frescoes without crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for a more intimate experience with the art.

Appreciating the Art

The Basilica is renowned for its stunning fresco cycles, particularly those by Pordenone. Allow ample time to absorb the detail and historical significance of these masterpieces.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better art viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light on art
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

La Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna è un gioiello dell’architettura rinascimentale, capolavoro della piena maturità dell’architetto piacentino Alessio Tramello. La chiesa venne costruita tra il 1522 e il 1528 per poter degnamente conservare l’immagine lignea policroma di una miracolosa “Madonna della Campagnola”. L’opera di maggior impatto, iniziata da Giovanni Antonio Sacchis, detto Il Porde...
gianlucafaso
93 likes • 2.6K views

Allow ample time

Don't rush! Soak in the incredible frescoes; they are the main draw. :camerawithflash:

Look for Pordenone's work

Seek out the astonishing frescoes by Pordenone – they are truly breathtaking. :art:

Understand its history

It's more than a church; it was a starting point for a crusade! :crossed_swords:

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Tips

from all over the internet

Allow ample time

Don't rush! Soak in the incredible frescoes; they are the main draw. :camerawithflash:

Look for Pordenone's work

Seek out the astonishing frescoes by Pordenone – they are truly breathtaking. :art:

Understand its history

It's more than a church; it was a starting point for a crusade! :crossed_swords:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(877 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna for its extraordinary and breathtaking fresco cycles, particularly those by Pordenone, calling them a masterpiece of Renaissance art. The church's historical significance and architectural beauty are also frequently highlighted, making it a deeply impressive and magical place for many.

"Extraordinary church with remarkable fresco cycles."

DAVID SNYDER

"Magnificent. Astonishing. Marvelous. Need more encouragement to visit? Ok, it will take your breath away and you won't go home anymore. Those Pordenone's frescos will make you understand what the genius/talent can reach."

Maddalena Tibertelli de Pisis

"Magical place, a piece of Christian history"

Cesare Tagliaferri

What People Like

Astonishing Pordenone frescoes
Renaissance architecture
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Limited parking nearby

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Basilica is located in Piacenza, Italy. It's accessible by public transport within the city or a short taxi ride from the city center. If driving, check local parking availability as it can be limited near the church. TikTok

Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity. It's advisable to look for public parking lots a short walk away from the Basilica to avoid congestion. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Basilica is generally free, though donations are appreciated to help with its upkeep. It's always a good idea to check their official website or local tourist information for any potential changes or special event pricing. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially on Sundays and holidays. It's recommended to check the official website or contact the local tourist office for the most up-to-date information before your visit. TikTok

While you can often visit outside of mass times, it's respectful to avoid disruptive photography or extensive touring during religious services. Check the schedule if you wish to attend mass. Reddit

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

The Basilica is most famous for its extraordinary and breathtaking fresco cycles, particularly the works by the Renaissance master Pordenone. These frescoes are considered a major artistic achievement. TikTokReddit

Photography is usually permitted, but without flash, to protect the delicate frescoes. Always look for signage or ask a church attendant if you are unsure. Instagram

To truly appreciate the art and architecture, allocate at least 1-2 hours. Rushing through will diminish the impact of the magnificent frescoes. Reddit

Information on guided tours may vary. It's best to inquire at the church or check local Piacenza tourism resources for availability and booking details. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on capturing the scale and detail of the Pordenone frescoes. The main nave and side chapels offer stunning perspectives. Remember to use natural light and avoid flash. Instagram

Yes, the exterior architecture is also impressive. The front facade and surrounding piazza offer good opportunities for exterior shots, especially during daylight hours. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, the Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna is an absolute must-visit. The Pordenone frescoes are the main draw, offering an unparalleled opportunity to witness the genius of a Renaissance master up close. Allocate ample time to study the intricate details, dramatic compositions, and vibrant colors. Consider bringing a good art history guide or doing some pre-visit research to fully appreciate the context and significance of these masterpieces. InstagramReddit

History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find the Basilica fascinating not only for its Renaissance art and architecture but also for its historical role. Its designation as the starting point for a Crusade offers a unique historical perspective. Researching this aspect before your visit can add significant depth to your experience, connecting the sacred space to broader historical events. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistic Masterpieces: Pordenone's Frescoes

The Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna is a treasure trove of Renaissance art, with its most celebrated features being the astonishing fresco cycles painted by Giovanni Antonio de' Sacchis, better known as Pordenone. These works, created between 1530 and 1532, are considered among his finest achievements and a highlight of High Renaissance painting in Northern Italy. Pordenone's frescoes adorn the dome, the apse, and various chapels, depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and other biblical narratives with a dramatic flair and masterful use of perspective and color. Visitors often describe the experience of viewing these frescoes as breathtaking and deeply moving, a testament to Pordenone's genius. TikTokReddit

These frescoes are not merely decorative; they are integral to the church's narrative and architectural design. Pordenone's ability to create a sense of depth and volume within the church's structure was revolutionary for its time. The vibrant colors, dynamic figures, and emotional intensity of the scenes draw viewers into the sacred stories. Many visitors recommend taking your time to truly absorb the details, as each section reveals new layers of artistic skill and storytelling. The sheer scale and quality of the work make it a must-see for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history of Italian painting. Instagram

Architectural Significance and History

Designed by the Piacenza architect Alessio Tramello, the Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna is a prime example of Renaissance architecture, built between 1522 and 1528. Its construction was commissioned to house a revered image of the 'Madonna della Campagnola,' believed to be miraculous. The church's design reflects the architectural ideals of the period, emphasizing harmony, proportion, and classical influences. The structure itself is a testament to the skill of Renaissance builders and designers, providing a grand and fitting setting for the sacred art it contains. TikTok

Beyond its artistic and architectural merits, the Basilica holds a unique place in history as the starting point for one of the Crusades. This historical connection adds another layer of significance to the site, transforming it from a place of worship and art into a location with broader historical resonance. Understanding this context can enrich a visitor's appreciation for the Basilica's enduring importance. Reddit

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