Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Vita, Baroque sanctuary in central Bologna, Italy
The Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Vita is a baroque church in central Bologna with an elliptical floor plan and a tall dome designed by Giuseppe Tubertini in 1787. The interior is dominated by the impressive cupola, while the walls hold works by different artists.
Construction began in 1687 under architect Giovanni Battista Bergonzoni, and the distinctive facade was added in 1905. These phases show the building's evolution from its baroque origins to its completion in the 20th century.
The chapel houses the renowned terracotta work depicting the Lamentation of Christ by Niccolò dell'Arca, which captures visitors' attention through its emotional intensity and masterful craftsmanship. The figures appear so lifelike that they have moved people for centuries.
The sanctuary is open daily for visitors to explore its interior at their own pace and examine the architectural details and artistic works. The visit is straightforward and requires no special preparation.
The adjacent chapel holds fourteen life-sized terracotta figures depicting the Assumption of the Madonna, created by Alfonso Lombardi in 1522, reflecting the religious devotion of that era. These statues tell a complete story solely through their arrangement and facial expressions.
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