Collegiata dei SS. Pietro e Stefano

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Piazza Collegiata
Lugano, Switzerland 6500

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Collegiata dei SS. Pietro e Stefano

November 12, 2005

by Sierra from Chicago

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If you come to Bellinzona by train, turn left out of the station onto the Via le Stazione, which will take you to the heart of the old city in less than 10 minutes' walk. Here you can explore the lovely Collegiata dei SS. Pietro e Stefano.

The facade of the church is typical of Italian churches, with a relatively simple facing and limited ornamentation. Depending on the time of day and the light, the stones seem to change colors, giving depth to the carvings and statues.

However, unlike the austere Protestant churches of the north, the Collegiata is richly ornamented with baroque paintings, carvings, and statues. From the tile flooring to the vaulted ceilings, there is something to examine and appreciate.

The fontana Trivulziana (baptismal font) dates to the 15th century, and the massive organ dates to 1533--and still functions. (The Collegiata dei SS. Pietro e Stefano is an active church.)

If you enjoy religious architecture, this is one of the more colorful and interesting churches I have seen in Switzerland.


From journal Bellinzona - Gateway to Southern Switzerland