San Michele a Metelliano

San Michele a Metelliano is a medieval parish church in Cortona with three interior naves separated by alternating pillars with polygonal columns. These columns lead to semicircular apses at the eastern end, while the western facade has a tall portal flanked by two single-light windows.

The church was completed in 1014 under Emperor Henry II and rests on the foundations of a Roman temple once dedicated to Bacchus. This shift from ancient to medieval use shows how sacred sites were reinterpreted across centuries.

The church keeps stone carvings and capitals from the 9th century inside, showing how Romanesque forms gradually emerged from earlier building traditions. Visitors can still see these carved details on the columns and arches today, recognizing how different periods were layered on top of each other.

The location sits near the Esse stream in the Val d'Esse region, offering a quiet setting. Best visited in the afternoon when natural light highlights the carved stone details and interior structure clearly.

Architect Maginardo designed the building on an existing tower, which was demolished in 1439 due to structural problems. This early act of repair shows how medieval builders identified and fixed weakness in their constructions.

Location: Cortona

Architects: Maginardo

GPS coordinates: 43.26399,12.00989

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:01