Perched majestically atop a hill overlooking the quaint town of Cantù, the Chiesa di San Paolo stands as a testament to centuries of faith, history, and architectural evolution. This significant Catholic basilica, with its origins tracing back to the late 11th century, invites visitors to step back in time and explore its storied past and stunning artistry.
The Chiesa di San Paolo was originally constructed in the Romanesque style, a fact still evident in the remnants of the upper façade above the portico, the roof profile, and certain parts of the central apse. The lower part of the bell tower, which once served as a watchtower for the nearby Pietrasanta Castle during the Middle Ages, also retains its Romanesque characteristics.
Throughout the centuries, the church underwent numerous modifications. Notably, two lateral naves were added, the wooden coffered ceiling of the central nave was replaced with a barrel vault, and a portico with paired columns extending from the Sacristy to the main entrance was demolished. Many of these significant alterations occurred in the latter half of the 16th century, spurred by Saint Charles Borromeo’s restoration efforts. During this period, the church was elevated to the status of a prepositural parish (1582-1584), and the bell tower was enhanced with a two-story brick belfry, capped by a conical spire designed by Pellegrino Tibaldi.
In 1950, Pope Pius XII elevated the Chiesa di San Paolo to the rank of a minor basilica, a designation that underscores its religious and cultural importance.
Externally, the church greets visitors with a striking façade, preceded by a 17th-century portico accessible via an imposing staircase. Although much of the 16th-century portico that once surrounded the building was demolished to make way for the Chapel of the Holy Crucifix, designed by Carlo Felice Soave in 1795, a few bays remain on the church's northern side.
Scavenger hunts in Cantù
Discover Cantù with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Cantù with your team!
Inside, the church features three naves separated by columns of serizzo. The original coffered ceiling has been replaced by a brick vault, a transformation that took place between the 16th and 17th centuries. The main nave is adorned with stained glass windows created by the painter Luigi Migliavacca in 1930, depicting the four saints of Cantù: Adeodato, Ecclesio, Savino, and Manfredo.
The church also houses a statue of Saint Apollonia, the patron saint of the city, along with a relic from the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria. The presbytery is decorated with a series of paintings illustrating the life of Saint Paul, including a triumphant fresco on the vault from the 19th century. The choir's stained glass windows depict key moments from Saint Paul's life, such as his fall from his horse, his conversion, and his persecution in Rome. Additionally, a painting by Camillo Procaccini in the choir area portrays the vocation of Saint Paul.
Giovanni Battista della Rovere is credited with the frescoes in the right nave, completed in 1610. The church also boasts a painting of Saint Apollonia's martyrdom and fourteen medallions above the columns in the central nave, depicting the apostles and saints Mark, Luke, and Paul.
The chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a treasure trove of 17th-century art, featuring five canvases that depict Saint Charles Borromeo, a martyr, and saints Catherine, Teresa of Ávila, and Agatha. An 19th-century painting of Saint Ambrose also graces the chapel, replacing an earlier depiction of Saint Joseph.
In the sacristy, visitors can admire a canvas by Camillo Procaccini, portraying the Biblical God appearing to the army. This piece is a testament to the church’s rich collection of religious art and its historical significance.
In conclusion, the Chiesa di San Paolo in Cantù is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of history, art, and faith. Its walls echo with the prayers and stories of generations, making it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting this charming Italian town. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a spiritual seeker, the Chiesa di San Paolo offers a profound and enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.