San Sebastiano, Renaissance church in Mantua, Italy
San Sebastiano is a Renaissance church in Mantua built as a Greek cross with carefully calculated geometric proportions throughout its design. The structure features regular arrangements of classical elements that reflect how architects of this period approached building with mathematical precision.
The building was created in the early 15th century and marks a turning point when Renaissance architects began applying ancient principles in a systematic way. This period represented a shift from medieval to new architectural thinking across Italy.
The church represents how a single architect's vision shaped the way Renaissance builders thought about sacred spaces. Walking through it, visitors notice how the proportions create a sense of balance and order that feels deliberately designed.
The church is located in the center of Mantua and is reachable on foot from the city's main squares. The best approach is from the nearby street leading to Largo XXIV Maggio, which offers clear views of the building.
The church was not built as a traditional cathedral with a long nave, but instead follows an unusual Greek cross layout that experimented with ancient mathematical ideals. This choice shows how boldly early Renaissance architects approached breaking away from traditional religious building forms.
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