San Salvatore, Brescia

San Salvatore is a church in Brescia with three naves divided by columns whose capitals blend Roman, Byzantine, and local features. The building sits within the Santa Giulia monastery complex and now serves as a museum displaying religious artworks and architectural fragments from different periods.

The church was founded in 753 when the Lombard duke Desiderio and his wife Ansa established it. Following Charlemagne's victory over the Lombards, the building gained royal privileges and remained an important religious center under the new rule.

The church is named after Saint Salvator and displays a blend of Roman, Byzantine, and early Christian building styles through its columns and capitals. Visitors can see these layered influences clearly in the details of the column heads and how the space is organized.

Entry is through the monastery museum complex of Santa Giulia, which connects to other galleries and art collections. Wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds are extensive and multiple rooms need to be explored on foot.

The monastery was the refuge of Desiderata, daughter of King Desiderius, who came here after her marriage to Charlemagne was annulled. This lesser-known episode reveals the political ties and personal stories woven into this religious location.

Location: Brescia

Founders: Duchy of Brescia

Architectural style: Lombard architecture

Part of: The monumental area with the monastic complex of San Salvatore-Santa Giulia, Monastery of Santa Giulia

Address: Via dei Musei, 81B

GPS coordinates: 45.53985,10.22813

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:51