San Satiro, Milan
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 of San Satiro
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 at San Satiro
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 |
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Country: | Italy |
Categories: | churches; shrines |
Dedication: | St. Satyrus; Virgin Mary |
Status: | active |
Visitor and Contact Information | |
Coordinates: | 45.462753° N, 9.187778° E |
Address: | Via Torino at Via Speronari Milan, Italy |
Hours: | Daily 9am-noon and 2:30-6pm |
Lodging: | View hotels near San Satiro |
References
More Information
- Photos of San Satiro - here on Sacred Destinations
Map of San Satiro, Milan
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.