Modena's Cathedral, Ghirlandina Tower, and Piazza Grande: A UNESCO Romanesque Masterpiece
In Modena, Italy, the UNESCO World Heritage site encompasses the Cathedral (Duomo), Civic Tower (Torre Ghirlandina), and Piazza Grande. The Cathedral's construction commenced on June 9, 1099, led by architect Lanfranco to accommodate the relics of Saint Geminianus. The translation ceremony in 1106 was graced by Pope Paschal II and Countess Matilda of Canossa. This basilica is characterized by three naves, three apses, and a sculptural program crafted by Wiligelmo. The Torre Ghirlandina, which began construction at the same time, had six floors completed by 1261, with an octagonal spire added by Arrigo da Campione, finalized in 1319. Piazza Grande was inscribed in 1997 and is bordered by notable structures, including the Bonissima statue. The site is recognized under UNESCO criteria I and IV as a remarkable example of human creative genius.
Key facts
- Construction of Modena Cathedral began on June 9, 1099.
- Architect Lanfranco designed the cathedral.
- The cathedral was commissioned by the Modenese community.
- In 1106, Pope Paschal II and Matilda of Canossa attended the translation of Saint Geminianus's relics.
- Wiligelmo created the sculptural decoration, including Stories of Genesis and Prophet figures.
- The Torre Ghirlandina was completed in 1319 and already leaned toward the church.
- Angelo Fortunato Formiggiani jumped from the Stanza dei Torresani in 1938 to protest racial laws.
- Piazza Grande was inscribed as a UNESCO site in 1997.
- The former Palace of Justice was designed by Giò Ponti in 1961.
Entities
Artists
- Lanfranco
- Wiligelmo
- Arrigo da Campione
- Giò Ponti
- Angelo Fortunato Formiggiani
Institutions
- UNESCO
- Museo del Duomo di Modena
- Palazzo Comunale
- Palazzo dell'Arcivescovado
- ex-palazzo di Giustizia
- Artspecialday
Locations
- Modena
- Italy
- Piazza Grande
- Modena Park
- via Castellaro