Basilica of San Frediano

The Basilica of San Frediano, known locally as the Basilica di San Frediano, is a gem of Romanesque architecture nestled in the heart of Lucca, Italy. This ancient church, with its rich history and stunning mosaic facade, stands proudly in Piazza San Frediano, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore its sacred halls.

The History of the Basilica of San Frediano

The origins of the Basilica of San Frediano date back to the 6th century when it was originally constructed on the site of a religious building dedicated to Saints Vincent, Stephen, and Lawrence. The church owes its name to Frediano, an Irish priest who became the Bishop of Lucca between 560 and 588. It is believed that Saint Frediano himself initiated the construction of the first church here. Archaeological excavations have confirmed the presence of this early structure beneath the current basilica.

During the Lombard domination, the church and its adjoining canonry were expanded, and by the end of the 8th century, a crypt was added to house the body of Saint Frediano. In 1104, Pope Paschal II reaffirmed the canons, entrusting them to the clergy of San Giovanni in Laterano. The current basilica, as we see it today, began to take shape in 1112 under the guidance of Prior Rotone and was consecrated in 1147 by Pope Eugene III.

The basilica underwent significant transformations in the 12th and 13th centuries. Initially, it was a three-nave structure without transepts or a crypt, reflecting the new trends associated with the Gregorian Reform. The most notable change during this period was the elevation of the central nave and the construction of a wooden truss ceiling, completed with the addition of the magnificent mosaic on the upper facade in the 13th and 14th centuries.

The Facade and Mosaic

The facade of the Basilica of San Frediano is a masterpiece of Romanesque art. Divided vertically into five sections, it corresponds to the central nave, the two side naves, and the lateral chapels. The three portals are framed by pillars and topped with lintels, with the central portal adorned with decorative vegetal motifs. Above these portals is a loggia with semi-columns and capitals of various designs, enclosing two single-light windows.

The crowning glory of the facade is the stunning mosaic depicting the Ascension of Christ, flanked by angels and surrounded by the Apostles. Originally, the Virgin Mary was also part of this scene, but her image was lost when the central window was added. The upper portion of the mosaic showcases a sophisticated artist well-versed in recent Byzantine influences, likely from a Roman workshop, while the lower section appears to be the work of a local artist from the Berlinghieri painters' workshop. The mosaic's iconography, featuring Christ in Mandorla and the prominent figures of Peter and Paul, reflects Roman artistic traditions.

The Bell Tower

The bell tower, located near the apse, is a striking feature of the basilica. Constructed over several periods, its dark stone base predates the 12th century, while the upper portion, made of lighter stone, was rebuilt in the 13th century. Each side of the tower features single-light, double-light, triple-light, and quadruple-light windows, with two levels of blind arches. The tower is topped with Ghibelline battlements on all four sides.

Inside the bell tower are six bells, one of which is out of tune, cast by various founders over different centuries. The bells can be rung either electrically or manually by the bell ringers of Lucca.

The Interior Architecture

Despite numerous modifications over the centuries, the medieval character of the basilica remains predominant. The three naves are divided by columns, many of which were brought from Rome, along with their capitals. These columns support rounded arches, and the central nave, elevated in the 13th century, is topped with a wooden truss ceiling. The central nave ends in an apse, while the side naves have flat ends. The absence of a transept and the addition of numerous chapels in the 14th to 16th centuries give the illusion of a five-nave structure.

The architecture of the Basilica of San Frediano exemplifies the Romanesque style of Lucca before the influences of nearby Pisa and northern Italian craftsmen altered its traditional characteristics. The church retains a simple early Christian basilica layout, with smooth walls, unadorned by complex arch articulations, and Roman architectural elements such as columned facades and apses, niche windows, and composite capitals.

Artworks and Chapels

The basilica is home to numerous artworks, including a 12th-century fresco depicting the Martyrdom of Saints Lawrence, Vincent, and Stephen, and later frescoes of Saint Helena and Saint Stephen. The Romanesque baptismal font, also from the 12th century, was sculpted by three anonymous artists, each contributing distinct panels.

The main altar, dating from the 16th century, houses the tomb of Saint Frediano. Surrounding the altar are remnants of the 12th-century Cosmatesque pavement and a recently discovered 15th-century fresco depicting the Holy Eucharist adored by angels.

Among the chapels, the Chapel of the Soccorso and the Chapel of Santa Zita stand out. The former, completed in 1509, features an altarpiece by Giuliano da Pisa, while the latter, dedicated to Saint Zita, was renovated in the 17th century and houses the incorrupt body of the saint.

In conclusion, the Basilica of San Frediano is not just a place of worship but a testament to the rich history and artistic heritage of Lucca. Its ancient walls and sacred spaces continue to inspire awe and reverence, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this beautiful Italian city.