Church of Santa Maria in Solario, Romanesque church in Brescia, Italy.
Description
The Church of Santa Maria in Solario is a Romanesque structure consisting of two levels connected by a stone staircase and crowned by a blind lantern. The building displays geometric clarity and precisely executed stonework that divides the interior into two distinct spaces.
History
The structure was built in the 12th century as an oratory within the San Salvatore-Santa Giulia monastic complex and underwent various modifications reflecting its religious role. Expansion of the monastic community over the centuries preserved the building as part of a larger whole.
Culture
The name derives from 'Solario', referring to the sun-facing side, which reflects the building's strategic orientation. Visitors can observe how the distinct levels served different purposes, with the interplay of light and space underscoring the architectural intent.
Practical
Access to the church is through the Santa Giulia Museum, where guided tours explain its architecture and religious importance. Visitors should allow time for the visit and be prepared to climb several levels connected by stairs.
Did you know?
The lower level houses a Roman altar dedicated to the sun god, revealing how ancient religious elements were integrated into medieval sacred architecture. This layering of periods shows the long history of the site and how worshippers gathered there across centuries.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Brescia).
Capitolium
237 m
Museo di Santa Giulia
40 m
San Salvatore, Brescia
67 m
Monastery of Santa Giulia
63 m
Brixia
233 m
Santa Giulia Museum
11 m
Roman forum
218 m
Palazzo Martinengo Cesaresco Novarino
239 m
Church of the Holy Body of Christ
160 m
Roman Theatre of Brescia
139 m
Church of Santa Giulia
72 m
Coro delle monache
61 m
Roman basilica
279 m
Church of San Clemente
265 m
Church Santa Maria in Calchera
284 m
Palazzo Maggi Gambara
267 m
Church of San Zeno al Foro
205 m
Church of Saint Mark the Evangelist
310 m
Scavi archeologici di Palazzo Martinengo Cesaresco Novarino
247 m
Lapidario del Capitolium di Brescia
230 m
Torre d'Ercole
287 m
Civic Museums of Brescia
54 m
Palazzo Uggeri
302 m
Palazzo Maggi di Gradella
332 m
Parco archeologico di Brixia romana
229 m
Cappella della Vergine in San Salvatore
49 m
Santuario di San Giovanni Piamarta
187 m
Roman Theatre of Brescia
165 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes