Sant'Orso, Romanesque collegiate church in Aosta, Italy
Sant'Orso is a Romanesque collegiate church in Aosta featuring three naves and semicircular apses. A bell tower measuring 46 meters (150 feet) rises above the building with multiple three-light and four-light windows.
The church was founded in the 5th century and underwent complete reconstruction around 1000 under Bishop Anselmo with a basilica layout and three naves. This transformation established the Romanesque structure that remains visible today.
The Romanesque cloister displays carved capitals with religious and secular scenes from when the community adopted Augustinian practices. Visitors can observe these details while walking through the covered arcades today.
The church is open daily with free access to the main building, while the cloister and additional areas require a small fee. Plan your visit during daylight hours to see the details clearly.
An underground crypt from the 11th century lies beneath the main building, honoring Saint Ursus with five naves and two apses. This hidden chamber mirrors the upper basilica in miniature and reveals the reverence for the patron saint.
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