Voltorre cloister, Romanesque cloister in Gavirate, Italy.
Voltorre cloister is a Romanesque courtyard with four sides where columns support arches above. Each side features differently designed capitals, and the entire courtyard is framed by covered galleries that run beneath the arches.
The complex began as a religious center in the 5th century, with a church added in the 11th century. The cloister itself was built in the 12th century to complete the religious compound.
The cloister displays local craftsmanship through its columns and carved capitals, which reflect medieval Lombard stone-working traditions. The four sides of the courtyard reveal different artistic details shaped by regional artisans of the time.
The cloister sits near walking and cycling trails, making it easy to access from the surrounding area. Visitors should know that opening hours and access can vary by season, so checking ahead is worthwhile.
A fire in 1913 destroyed much of the original capitals and columns in the courtyard. Restoration work that followed combined remaining original pieces with new elements under official supervision.
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