San Satiro, Milan

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Photo © Anthony M.

The Chiesa Santa Maria Presso di San Satiro (commonly known just as San Satiro) is a beautiful church just south of the Duomo in Milan.

History

First built in 876, the church was dedicated to St. Satyrus, brother of St. Ambrose, and stands on the reputed site of his house. Later the church was dedicated also to Mary, so that the church's full name is now "St. Mary Staying with St. Satyrus."

While San Satiro is now eclipsed by more famous Milan churches, it was an important pilgrimage site in the 13th and 14th centuries, after news spread through Christendom that an image of the Madonna here shed real blood when stabbed.

An architectural gem, San Satiro was later perfected by Bramante (1444-1514), demonstrating his command of proportion and perspective, keynotes of Renaissance architecture.

What to See

Bramante created a marvelous relief behind the high altar with trompe l'oeil columns and arches. The effect is not entirely convincing but nonetheless magical. His work also accommodated a beloved 13th-century fresco.

Another gem lies to the rear of the left transept: the Cappella della Pietà, so called for the 15th-century terra-cotta Pietà it now houses. It was originally built in the 9th century to honor Saint Satiro, brother of Saint Ambrose. Even more attractive than the namesake statue, though, are the Byzantine frescoes and Romanesque columns of the chapel.

Quick Facts on San Satiro

Site Information
Names:	Chiesa Santa Maria Presso di San Satiro; San Satiro; San Satiro, Milan
City:	Milan
State:	Lombardy
Country:	Italy
cat:	Churches; Shrines; Catholic Shrines
faith:	Christianity; Catholic
style:	Renaissance
Status:	active
Visitor and Contact Information
Address:	Via Torino at Via Speronari, Milan, Italy
Coordinates:	45.462753° N, 9.187778° E (view on Google Maps)
Opening Hours:	Daily 9am-noon and 2:30-6pm
Cost:	Free
Transport:	Metro: Duomo or Missori
Lodging:	View hotels near this location

Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

Map of San Satiro

Below is a location map and aerial view of San Satiro. Using the buttons on the left (or the wheel on your mouse), you can zoom in for a closer look, or zoom out to get your bearings. To move around, click and drag the map with your mouse.

References

More Information

San Satiro, Milan - Go Historic
Photos of San Satiro - here on Sacred Destinations

Article Info

Title:	San Satiro, Milan
Author:	Holly Hayes
Last updated:
Permalink:	www.sacred-destinations.com/italy/milan-san-satiro
Link code:	<a href="http://www.sacred-destinations.com/italy/milan-san-satiro">San Satiro, Milan</a>