Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, Renaissance basilica and shrine in Brescia, Italy.
The Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is a basilica and shrine divided by Corinthian columns into three naves. The interior spaces feature stucco, gold, and frescoes by several Renaissance artists, while a connected cloister completes the architectural complex.
Construction began in 1522 under architect Lodovico Barcella to house the Gerolimini monastic community after their original church was destroyed. The building reflects a blend of Renaissance and Baroque design, showing the architectural shift that occurred in northern Italy during this period.
The cloister holds a Renaissance courtyard with a fountain, its walls decorated with votive offerings left by local believers over time. These personal gifts show how community members have used this space as a place of prayer and devotion across generations.
The complex is located at Via delle Grazie 13 in Brescia, comprising a basilica and shrine connected through a cloister. Visitors should plan time to explore the different sections of the complex and check opening times typical for religious shrines.
Pope Paul VI, born Giovanni Battista Montini, celebrated his first Mass at the shrine's altar in 1920. This connection to one of the 20th century's most influential church leaders gives the location a special place in modern religious history.
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