Rotonda di San Lorenzo

The circular church features a central plan with ancient brick walls, two marble columns, and a dedicated upper gallery for female worshippers.

Built in 1083 under Matilde di Canossa's rule, the church stands on foundations of a former Roman temple dedicated to goddess Venus.

The interior walls display Byzantine frescoes from the 11th century, including a 15th-century fragment depicting the Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence.

The religious building sits below street level and remains open to visitors through the dedication of Dominican Monuments Association volunteers.

The architecture replicates the design of Jerusalem's Holy Sepulchre, making it a rare example of such construction in northern Italy.

Location: Mantua

Inception: 11 century

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Address: Piazza Erbe

GPS coordinates: 45.15812,10.79475

Latest update: May 15, 2025 10:37