Torcello Cathedral, Minor basilica on Torcello island, Venice, Italy
Torcello Cathedral is a basilica with three naves separated by Greek marble columns, with the central nave rising higher than the two lateral sections. The interior leads to an altar on the east side and displays the classic Byzantine spatial arrangement.
The cathedral was founded in 639 by Exarch Isaac of Ravenna and served as the bishop's seat for over a thousand years. In 1818 it was downgraded to a parish church, marking a shift in its role within the Venetian church structure.
The walls display intricate mosaics, including the Last Judgment on the back wall and the Virgin Hodegetria with saints in the main apse. These artworks reflect the spiritual and artistic importance this place held for believers over the centuries.
The building is located on Torcello island and can only be reached by boat from central Venice. Your visit is best combined with exploring the archaeological remains and other churches on the island.
The church houses the skull of Saint Cecilia among its relics and preserves an original marble throne from the time of the bishops of Altino. These ancient objects testify to the site's early importance as a major religious center.
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