The Basilica of the Santissima Annunziata del Vastato, found at Piazza della Nunziata 4 in Genoa, is a concealed marvel that encapsulates the city's illustrious past and extraordinary artistic heritage. Originally established by the Franciscans in 1520, the basilica was erected upon the site of an earlier small church, Santa Maria del Prato, which was linked to the Humiliati. The construction was temporarily ceased in 1537 but recommenced in 1591 under the patronage of the Lomellini family, a distinguished Genoese aristocratic lineage.
The work was overseen by Taddeo Carlone until the 17th century, when the basilica was adorned with opulent Baroque embellishments. Andrea Ansaldo completed the dome, while the present Neoclassicist facade was designed by Carlo Barabino in the 19th century. After enduring damage during World War II, the basilica remains a tangible reminder of Genoa’s artistic legacy - and maybe, a secret or two.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Nicolo Ciampini
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