The origins of the Church of Santa Maria in Gradi
Church of Santa Maria in Gradi, located in the square of the same name in Arezzo, has its roots in the 11th century. The area in which it stands is of great archaeological significance, having been the site of important Roman potter’s kilns. According to tradition, this place was a refuge for early persecuted Christians, including Bishop Donatus and his followers. Around 1050, a small church and Benedictine monastery were built in the area, marking the beginning of the history of Santa Maria in Gradi. The original structure, in Romanesque style, was influenced by the architectural influences of Ravenna, and part of it can still be seen today in the crypt of the church. This early phase of construction reflects the religious and cultural character of the period, laying the foundation for what would become one of Arezzo’s most important churches, with strong ties to local Christian communities.
The transition to the Camaldolese period of Santa Maria in Gradi
In the mid-12th century, the Church of Santa Maria in Gradi underwent a significant change when the monastery came under the Camaldolese rule. This change transformed the religious complex into a landmark for the Camaldolese Order within the city of Arezzo. The Camaldolese monks, known for their ascetic life and strong spiritual commitment, helped make Santa Maria in Gradi a center of religious devotion and culture. The church continued to grow in importance and became the focus of monastic activities for several centuries, until the monastery’s suppression in 1785, when many religious institutions were closed by the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. During this long Camaldolese period, the church was enriched with new spaces and works of art, reflecting the order’s simple but deeply spiritual lifestyle. Even today, the Camaldolese presence is evident in the decorations and atmosphere of this sacred place.
The Renaissance reconstruction by Bartolomeo Ammannati
In 1591, the Church of Santa Maria in Gradi underwent a profound architectural transformation to meet the new liturgical needs that emerged after the Council of Trent. The reconstruction project was entrusted to Florentine architect Bartolomeo Ammannati, one of the greatest exponents of the Renaissance. Ammannati conceived a sober and majestic building, characterized by a single nave, as required by the Tridentine directives, to facilitate preaching and the visual and acoustic union of the faithful. This intervention was designed to give the church a solemn feel, downsizing the decorations and focusing on functional and spiritually intense architecture. When Ammannati died, the work was continued by Giorgio Vasari the Younger, who completed the church in about twenty years. Between 1630 and 1633, the bell tower was also added, designed by architect Giuseppe Betti, further enriching the church’s profile and its Renaissance character.
The works of art: Andrea della Robbia and the 17th-century frescoes
The Church of Santa Maria in Gradi houses a rich artistic heritage inside, the result of centuries of history. Among the most significant works is the glazed terracotta of the “Madonna of Mercy,” made by Andrea della Robbia’s workshop at the end of the 15th century. This sculpture, located in the first chapel on the left, is an excellent example of the art of the della Robbia family, known for their innovative use of glazed ceramics, which gives colors exceptional brilliance and durability. In addition to this fine work, the church is adorned with a cycle of frescoes created in the 17th century by artists such as Ulisse Giocchi and Giovan Battista Manzolini. The frescoes, depicting the Twelve Apostles and St. Paul, decorate the walls of the main nave and were completed in 1613.
The wooden ceiling and the Camaldolese coats of arms
One of the most spectacular elements of the Church of Santa Maria in Gradi is the wooden ceiling, completed in 1711, which adds a note of grandeur and refinement to the interior of the building. This ceiling is embellished with the Camaldolese coats of arms and the acronyms “SMIG” (Santa Maria in Gradi) and “SMDA” (Santa Maria di Agnano), celebrating the deep connection between the church and the Camaldolese Order. The coats of arms symbolize the importance of the religious community in the life of the church and are a tribute to its centuries-old history. The masterfully crafted ceiling presents a balance between simplicity and majesty, in keeping with the Camaldolese principles of spiritual austerity. Richly carved wood adds warmth and solemnity to the room.
The crypt and the 13th-century Crucifix
The crypt of the Church of Santa Maria in Gradi is one of the oldest and most striking elements of the building, dating back to the 11th century. This Romanesque structure, located under the present main nave, is what remains of the original church before it was rebuilt in the 16th century. The crypt, also known as the Tomb of the Crucifix, once held a valuable wooden crucifix, dating from the late 13th century, which is now located on the church’s high altar. This ancient artifact, steeped in spirituality and devotion, is a significant example of medieval religious sculpture in Arezzo. The crypt retains an intimate and austere atmosphere, with its ancient stones bearing witness to centuries of history.
Discover Santa Maria in Gradi from the B&B Cento Passi dal Duomo
The B&B Cento Passi dal Duomo, in the heart of Arezzo’s historic center, is the ideal starting point for those wishing to explore the wonders of the city, including the Church of Santa Maria in Gradi. Just a few minutes’ walk from major cultural and historical attractions, such as the Duomo and Piazza Grande, the B&B offers a strategic location that allows visitors to immerse themselves in Arezzo’s rich history without having to travel by car. After a day spent visiting iconic sights, such as the Church of Santa Maria in Gradi with its frescoes, wooden ceiling and evocative crypt, guests can relax in the B&B’s cozy rooms, equipped with all modern comforts. The intimate and cozy atmosphere of the B&B, combined with its central location, makes this accommodation the perfect choice for those who want to discover the charms of Arezzo with ease and comfort.