Nestled between two other gems of Upper Bergamo, the Basilica of St. Mary Major and the Palazzo della Ragione, St. Alexander’s Cathedral shines in its resounding beauty.
Bergamo Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of Saint Alexander Martyr, stands majestically on the square of the same name, in the heart of the bustling Città Alta. This place, steeped in history and spirituality, has its roots in a distant past, as evidenced by the archaeological layers of the subsoil which reveal the presence of a place of worship as early as the 5th century AD.
The history of the Cathedral is a fascinating intertwining of events and transformations. An initial religious building dating back to the 8th century, dedicated to San Vincenzo of Saragozza, remained standing until the mid-fifteenth century, when the Florentine architect Filarete was commissioned to erect a new Latin cross structure.
However, Bergamo already had a cathedral, the one dedicated to Saint Alexander, the city’s patron saint. For most of the Middle Ages, the two imposing churches competed, until in 1561, during the Venetian domination, the cathedral of Sant’Alessandro was demolished to make way for the imposing walls that still embrace Bergamo Alta today. From that moment on, the church of San Vincenzo assumed the title of Sant’Alessandro, becoming the only city cathedral.
GETTING THERE:
The approach path to the south lateral entrance (the only accessible one) is downhill with a slope of 7-8%. The sidewalk is paved with stone slabs but lacks tactile paving.
ENTRANCE:
The secondary portal is always open and accessible via an external steel ramp 310 cm long with an 18% slope. The revolving door has adequately wide doors and is on level ground.
VISIT:
The main hall is on level ground and accessible.
Presbytery and Chapel of San Vincenzo are not accessible (7 steps).
Crypt is not accessible (staircase).
Chapel of the Crucifix: 1 step, 17 cm high.
Artworks are visible and information is available in 4 languages. There are no aids for the visually impaired.
No restrooms are available.
Summary evaluation:
O: person with mobility impairment: accessible with companion.
/: person with visual impairment: accessible with companion.
