San Vicinio cathedral, Romanesque basilica in Sarsina, Italy
San Vicinio cathedral is a Romanesque basilica in Sarsina featuring a Latin cross layout where the central nave is twice the width of the side naves and topped with a wooden trussed ceiling. The interior displays the proportions and details typical of Romanesque design from the region.
Construction of this cathedral began in the tenth century and it served as the primary residence for the Bishops of Sarsina until 1986. The church continues to hold importance as the spiritual center of the town despite the shift in its administrative function.
The Chapel of San Vicinio displays four votive paintings showing the saint's miracles, created by Michele Valbonesi in traditional Italian style. These works reflect how local worshippers have expressed their prayers and gratitude for centuries.
The cathedral opens daily for worship services and houses the sacred chain of San Vicinio, which is used during healing blessings for visiting pilgrims. Visitors should arrive prepared for narrow interior spaces and maintain appropriate reverence, especially during prayer times.
The baptismal font features carved goat heads at its four corners, an unusual detail in medieval stonework that catches the eye of many visitors. A pulpit from around the twelfth century shows Franco-German artistic influences and ranks among the oldest furnishings in the building.
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