Chiesa di San Bernardino in Pignolo, church in Bergamo, Italy
The chiesa di San Bernardino in Pignolo is a Renaissance building situated along a side street of Bergamo with a distinctive facade featuring neo-Gothic design elements. The interior contains a single nave with several side chapels, and a notable painted altarpiece commands attention at the far end.
Construction began in the second half of the 15th century, inspired by the impact of a renowned preacher who had visited the city twice in earlier decades. His influence on the local faithful prompted the community to establish this sanctuary.
The building takes its name from Saint Bernardino of Siena, a preacher whose visits left a lasting impression on local religious life. Visitors still come to pray before Lorenzo Lotto's altarpiece and connect with the devotion to these saints that shaped the community.
This is an active place of worship with regular religious services throughout the week, so visiting hours vary according to the liturgical calendar. Respectful behavior is expected, and it is best to plan your visit around service times.
A penitential brotherhood occupied the church until the late 16th century, with members engaging in ritual self-flagellation as an expression of spiritual devotion. This practice was part of a broader European movement focused on physical penance for spiritual purification.
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