Cardinal of Portugal's Chapel, Renaissance chapel at San Miniato al Monte, Florence, Italy
The Cardinal of Portugal's Chapel is a Renaissance prayer room in San Miniato al Monte with a barrel vault decorated with 69 rosettes and geometric patterns in glazed terracotta. The space features a marble tomb by Antonio Rossellino showing the cardinal in a reclining position.
Archbishop Alvaro commissioned the chapel in 1461 to honor Cardinal James of Lusitania, who died in Florence in 1459. This foundation marked a gesture of respect for an influential church leader.
The chapel displays frescoes by multiple artists showing Evangelists, Church Doctors, and biblical figures in a unified artistic composition. These paintings together fill the space with religious imagery that reflects Renaissance faith.
The chapel is located inside San Miniato al Monte church and is easy to find when exploring the main building. Visitors should take time to examine the tomb details and ceiling up close.
The floor displays intricate inlaid work combining serpentine marble, porphyry, and granite, skillfully crafted by Roman artisan Stefano di Bartolomeo. This floor design is an often-overlooked artwork that lies beneath your feet.
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