Basilica di Sant'Andrea

The Basilica di Sant'Andrea in Vercelli was built between 1219 and 1227 at the direction of Cardinal Guala Bicchieri. The style of the Romanesque elements connects the building to the architectural traditions of northern Italy and suggest the hand of an Italian master in the design.

Thanks to Bicchieri's diplomacy, the abbey was able to increase its possessions through donations and privileges from pope Honorius III and emperor Frederick II. Bicchieri died in Rome in 1227, the year in which the basilica was finished.

In the early 15th century a new bell tower was built, in a detached position, on the right side of the church. In the following century the cloister of the monastery was rebuilt, though the original small columns  (in groups of four) were kept.

The complex was damaged during the Siege of Vercelli of 1617. During restorations carried out in 1818–1840, the scrinium (travelling case) of Guala Bicchieri was found in the building; it is now in the Turin City Museum of Ancient Art. Other restorations took place in 1927 and 1955–1960.

Description

The basilica follows a Latin cross plan with a nave, two lower aisles, and a five-bay transept. A tall octagonal lantern tower with a belfry crowns the crossing. The rectangular apse reflects Cistercian Gothic style.

The façade blends stone and brick in Lombard-Romanesque style, with a rose window and three Romanesque portals. Reliefs above the doors depict scenes related to St. Andrew, likely by Antelami’s pupils.

Inside, Gothic arches, vaulted ceilings, and a lantern tower with Evangelist symbols define the space. Notable artworks include a 14th-century tomb and a 15th-century painted crucifix.

Address
Via Galileo Ferraris 99, Vercelli, Italy

Established
1219-1227