San Mercuriale Basilica
A city symbol, the basilica represents the most important monument in the city of Forlì, along with the bell tower and the artworks preserved inside.
On the south side of Piazza Saffi, the basilica arises, majestic, with its bell tower and related cloister, in a single complex which current appearance is the result of changes made over the centuries.
The basilica has ancient origins since it was built over the ruins of the church dedicated to Santo Stefano, which already existed in the IV century. Destroyed in 1173 by a massive fire that broke out during a heated battle between Guelfi and Ghibellini, it was re-built in Romanesque-Lombard style between 1176 and 1181.
The bell tower, Lombard style (1178-1180), stands on the right hand side, more than 72 meter tall and it is surmounted by a conical cusp, which, perhaps, was added in the fourteenth century.
Attached to the church it is possible to find the 15th century rectangular cloister, belonging to the Benedettini Vallombrosiani former monastery, restored several times as a result of wear and tear. It hosts several valuable works, including Barbara Manfredi's tomb (circa 1466) and a board with the Virgin Mary with Baby Jesus and Giovanni and Caterina Saints by Marco Palmezzano.
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