Medieval Church of Sant’Andrea

About this activity

The Church of Sant’Andrea e Bartolomeo, located in the heart of Orvieto, is a true gem of Italian medieval architecture. This extraordinary church, located next to the Palazzo Comunale in the beautiful Piazza della Repubblica, is a must-see historical and cultural landmark for anyone visiting the city.

Where It Is and How to Get There

The Church of Sant’Andrea is located in Piazza della Repubblica, in the historic center of Orvieto. Reaching the church is easy: if arriving by car, you can park in one of the parking lots outside the city walls and then take the funicular that goes directly to the historic center. For those who prefer the train, Orvieto’s railway station is well connected, and from there you can take a bus or shuttle that goes directly to the city center.

A Bit of History

The Church of St. Andrew has a fascinating history dating back to medieval times, but the site on which it stands has much more ancient roots. In fact, beneath the current sacred building, remains of structures dating back to the Villanovan era have been discovered, as well as significant traces from the Etruscan and Roman periods. During the Middle Ages, the church witnessed important ecclesiastical events, including the appointments of Pope Martin IV and Cardinals Nicholas IV and Boniface VIII.

What to See: Monuments and Works of Art

Inside the church, visitors can admire a series of works of art and monuments that reflect the various historical eras Orvieto has gone through. Among the masterpieces that stand out are:

• The Cosmatesque Pulpit: An extraordinary example of Cosmatesque art, characterized by intricate marble mosaics.
• The Sepulchral Aedicula: Dating back to the early 14th century, this structure testifies to the funerary art of the period.
• 14th Century Frescoes: Several frescoes dating back to the 14th century adorn the walls of the church, offering a glimpse into Italian medieval art.
• The Annunciation Canvas by Cesare Nebbia: A work of great artistic value, along with two canvases attributed to his student Angelo Righi from Orvieto and a ‘Holy Family’ by Alessandro Franchi (1895).
• Contemporary Works: During the latest restoration, modern sculptures were added to the portal’s lunette and a rose window was created by Ilario Ciaurro.

The Underground Chambers of St. Andrew’s Church

One of the most fascinating features of St. Andrew’s Church is its underground chambers, which can be visited by appointment with the assistance of an archaeological guide. These chambers preserve historical evidence of four different evolutionary phases:

1. Bronze Age: Evidenced by discoveries of bronze and ceramic objects.
2. Etruscan Period: Remains of ancient street pavements made of basalt stones.
3. Roman Era: Few traces remain due to the abandonment of the city after the Roman conquest.
4. Early Middle Ages: Remains of a Christian basilica with beautiful mosaic flooring that outlines a three-nave structure, probably the city’s first true place of worship.

The Church of St. Andrew is not just a place of worship, but a veritable treasure trove of history and art. Every visit is a journey through the ages, from ancient origins to contemporary times, offering a unique experience that enriches anyone who has the pleasure of exploring this extraordinary site. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this authentic slice of the various eras Orvieto has lived through!