Santa Maria della Vittoria, Renaissance church in Mantua, Italy
Santa Maria della Vittoria is a small church on Piazzetta di San Simone that blends Renaissance and Gothic architectural styles. The structure features two stories and was designed by architect Bernardino Ghisolfi.
Francesco Gonzaga ordered construction in 1495 to commemorate a military campaign against French forces. The building was erected on land that previously belonged to a Jewish banker.
The name references a military victory and shapes how locals understand this small urban space. Today, visitors can observe how it functions as a quiet landmark in the neighborhood and how people move through the piazza around it.
The church sits in Mantua's old town and is easily reached via Piazzetta di San Simone. Access is generally open, but it is wise to check specific opening hours before visiting.
The church was founded following a controversial incident when a Jewish banker removed a religious image from his house wall. This action provoked strong public reaction in the city and ultimately sparked the decision to build the church.
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