Santa Maria del Sasso, Renaissance minor basilica in Bibbiena, Italy
Santa Maria del Sasso is a Renaissance sanctuary in Bibbiena with a central nave, transept, deep choir, and a small tempietto housing a Madonna and Child fresco by Bicci di Lorenzo. The church also contains a polychrome terracotta altarpiece depicting Christ and John the Baptist by Giovanni della Robbia and other artistic works from the period.
A white dove sign in 1347 led to the construction of the first chapel in 1348. The current Renaissance building was commissioned in 1486 and designed by architect Giuliano da Maiano, who created a structure with balanced proportions.
The name "del Sasso" comes from the rocky outcrop where it was built. Visitors can see how the structure sits on the natural stone and how locals still use it as a place for prayer and reflection.
The sanctuary is accessible on foot and offers good views of the interior artworks. Plan enough time to study the various pieces closely, especially the fresco and terracotta altarpiece, without rushing.
The crypt holds a wooden Madonna statue from the early 15th century, likely created by Andrea Cavalcanti, a Florentine master. This work deserves more attention than it usually receives from visitors focused on the upper level frescoes.
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