The Tempio Malatestiano is a Renaissance-style church located in the city of Rimini, Italy. It was originally built as a Franciscan church and later transformed into a monumental tomb for the Malatesta family by Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, Lord of Rimini, in 1450. The temple is considered one of the most important examples of Renaissance architecture in Italy and is home to several notable artworks....
Tempio Malatestiano, Rimini, Italy
The Tempio Malatestiano is a Renaissance-style church located in the city of Rimini, Italy. It was originally built as a Franciscan church and later transformed into a monumental tomb for the Malatesta family by Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, Lord of Rimini, in 1450. The temple is considered one of the most important examples of Renaissance architecture in Italy and is home to several notable artworks.
History
The Tempio Malatestiano was originally named for St. Francis and was a thirteenth-century Gothic Franciscan church. It was very simple, being of a rectangular plan without side chapels. In 1447, Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta commissioned the architect Leon Battista Alberti to transform the pre-existing church of San Francesco into a work of shocking novelty. The result was an elaborate and highly decorative monument to this couple, whose initials are emblazoned all over the Tempio Malatestiano.
Architecture
The architecture of the Tempio Malatestiano is a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. The façade, designed by Alberti, features a large arch inspired by the Arch of Augustus and bearing, on the frieze, the Latin inscription ‘Sigimundus Pandulfus Malatesta Pan F, Anno Gratiae MCCCCL’. The arches on the sides recall the Tiberius Bridge. The interior is divided into a nave and two aisles, with a barrel vault ceiling.
Artworks
The Tempio Malatestiano is home to several notable artworks, including Giotto's Crucifix (Giotto Di Bondone) and Piero della Francesca's fresco depicting Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta genuflecting before St Sigismondo. The temple also houses the tomb of Sigismondo himself, located to the right of the entrance, and the Arch of the Ancestors, where Sigismondo wanted to place the bones of his ancestors and descendants.
Restoration
The Tempio Malatestiano underwent new restoration works financed by the Cassa di Risparmio di Rimini Foundation in Jubilee year. The temple, which was consacrated a Basilica on 29 september 2002, is now open to visitors and is a popular tourist destination in Rimini.
Visiting the Tempio Malatestiano
The Tempio Malatestiano is located in the heart of Rimini and is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take a bus or train to Rimini's central station, which is just a short walk from the temple. The temple is open daily from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, and admission is free.
Conclusion
The Tempio Malatestiano is an important example of Renaissance architecture in Italy and is home to several notable artworks. The temple's unique blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles makes it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Rimini. Whether you're interested in art, architecture, or history, the Tempio Malatestiano has something for everyone.
- For more information about the Tempio Malatestiano, visit ArtsDot.com
- To learn more about Leon Battista Alberti, visit ArtsDot.com