Church of San Pietro
16123, Italy, Genoa, Piazza Banchi
Description:
The Church of San Pietro, located on Piazza Banchi, differs in appearance from typical temple buildings. Its building is elevated above street level, and at its base there are shops and shops - the neighborhood is strange, but, it turns out, historically very justified.
The first building of the church of San Pietro was built presumably in the IX century near the main gates leading to the city, on the site of the former grain market. In 1398, a fire destroyed the church.
The city authorities for a long time could not find the funds to restore it. And then to solve the financial problem, an original solution was found: at the base of the future temple, a roomy basement floor was built and its areas were leased to merchants. With this money, the architect Bernandio Cantone built a new church in the XVI century.
The church looks like a traditional Genoese rich mansion, and its interior decoration is magnificent. White marble, which is lined with walls, from which columns and numerous bas-reliefs are made, creates an atmosphere filled with light. After the crowded alleyways leading to the temple, this lightness is felt especially acutely.