Santissimo Sacramento, Renaissance church in Ancona, Italy
Santissimo Sacramento is a Renaissance church in Ancona featuring symmetrical proportions, a Latin cross layout, and an octagonal dome that crowns the central section. The building displays classical geometry and balanced design elements typical of its architectural period.
Construction started in 1538 with initial consecration in 1548, establishing it as a parish church within the Catholic tradition. Major renovations between 1771 and 1776 by architect Francesco Ciaraffoni transformed the interior design and reinforced its structural integrity.
Inside, stucco statues of the apostles created in 1775 by Gioacchino Varlè line the walls, while frescoes depicting the Four Evangelists painted in 1880 by Francesco Podesti cover the upper sections. These artworks mark different periods of artistic attention and define the visual character of the space.
The church operates as an active parish location and welcomes visitors to explore its architectural and artistic features. Visitors should dress respectfully and be mindful of worshippers during religious services and celebrations.
Beneath the parish space lie remains of an ancient Roman gymnasium discovered during archaeological excavations. These ancient remnants reveal that the site served as a training facility long before the Renaissance church was built above it.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.