Colle di Val d'Elsa Cathedral, Baroque co-cathedral in Colle di Val d'Elsa, Italy
Colle di Val d'Elsa Cathedral is a baroque church featuring a Greek cross plan with a main nave and two side aisles separated by rectangular piers. The space is defined by eight side chapels with barrel vaults and a central cupola overhead.
Construction began in 1603 on the site of the former San Salvatore parish church under architect Fausto Rughesi. The building took decades to complete, with artisans like Silvestro Ceramelli adding interior elements such as the choir stalls in 1628.
The cathedral houses a tabernacle by Mino da Fiesole containing a nail believed to be from the Crucifixion, along with a marble pulpit from 1465. These works draw pilgrims and visitors seeking connection to sacred history.
The building connects to both the medieval upper town and newer valley sections of Colle di Val d'Elsa via a modern elevator system. Visitors can explore the interior at a leisurely pace to appreciate the chapels and decorative details.
The church houses original choir stalls from 1628 crafted by artisan Silvestro Ceramelli, still occupying their original location. These rare functional artworks showcase the craftsmanship of the period.
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