Santa Maria ad Nives

Santa Maria ad Nives is a church with Renaissance features located at Piazza Santa Maria Foris Portam in Faenza. The building features a striking bell tower of unclad brick with two tiers of triple-opening windows that dominate the square's appearance.

The building dates to the early 6th century and originally stood outside the city walls, reflected in its former name Santa Maria Foris Portam. After damage during World War II, it was rebuilt with some Gothic decorative additions.

The church's name recalls the Virgin Mary and snow, a tradition linked to an ancient Roman temple that once stood here. Visitors can still see the artworks inside that shaped the spiritual life of the community across generations.

Visitors can enter during regular opening hours, which can be checked at the entrance or with the local visitor center. The location in the town center makes it easily accessible on foot, with parking available near the square.

The bell tower was built using recycled stone from Roman structures, blending different historical periods into one surface. This mixing of materials shows how the city incorporated its past into newer constructions.

Location: Faenza

Inception: 6 century

Architectural style: Renaissance architecture

GPS coordinates: 44.28492,11.87591

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:45