Santa Croce Church

Santa Croce Church is a house of worship in Riva San Vitale featuring an octagonal dome supported by eight monumental columns that dominate its interior space. The design includes two side chapels and a pronounced presbytery area where the altar is located.

Construction of the building was completed in 1582 under the direction of Giovan Andrea Della Croce with architectural plans created by Giovan Antonio Piotti. This period marked a time of significant religious and architectural innovation in the region.

The church displays three altars crafted by Domenico Fossati di Arzo and features interior paintings by Camillo Procaccini depicting religious scenes and spiritual themes. These artworks reflect the artistic tradition valued in the region during the Renaissance period.

The church is situated on the northern side of Riva San Vitale in the canton of Ticino and can be visited during times when services are not taking place. Visitors should be prepared for the building's interior layout with its central columns and elevated altar platform that divide the worship space.

The structure features a slender bell tower integrated into its design and topped with a lantern that echoes the octagonal pattern of the main dome above. This architectural detail creates a visual harmony between the tower and the broader composition of the building.

Location: Riva San Vitale

Inception: 1582

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

Part of: list of cultural properties in Riva San Vitale

Address: Via Santa Croce, 6826 Riva San Vitale

GPS coordinates: 45.90680,8.96975

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:27