Udine Cathedral

Udine Cathedral, also known locally as Duomo di Udine, is a magnificent Roman Catholic cathedral located in the heart of Udine, Italy. This architectural gem stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. With its stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, the cathedral is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of the city’s resilience and artistic achievement.

The History of Udine Cathedral

The origins of Udine Cathedral date back to the early 13th century when construction began in 1236 at the behest of Patriarch Bertoldo of Andechs-Merania. Initially dedicated to Saint Ulrich of Augsburg, the cathedral was inspired by Franciscan architectural principles. By 1257, the building was already in use for worship, although it underwent numerous modifications over the years. It wasn't until 1335 that the cathedral was consecrated under the title of Santa Maria Maggiore (Saint Mary Major).

A significant earthquake in 1348 caused extensive damage to the cathedral, but this did not halt its religious activities. It took several years before reconstruction efforts commenced. In 1368, Venetian master Pierpaolo dalle Masegne was commissioned to restore the building. He reinforced the walls, rebuilt the roof, and made alterations to the façade, including replacing the original grandiose rose window with a smaller one that remains visible today. The two smaller rose windows on the sides were also modified, incorporating a false loggia decoration that connects them.

In the 18th century, the cathedral underwent a near-total transformation under the direction of architect Domenico Rossi. By 1735, the renovations were complete, and Patriarch Daniele Delfino re-consecrated the cathedral with its new name, Santa Maria Annunziata. At the dawn of the 20th century, further restoration efforts aimed to return the façade to its 14th-century appearance.

The Bell Tower

The bell tower of Udine Cathedral is an integral part of its structure, although it has a rather stout appearance. Construction began in March 1441, based on designs by Cristoforo da Milano and supervised by Bartolomeo delle Cisterne. The initial plans envisioned a tower that would rival the height of the bell tower of Udine Castle, which sits atop a hill. At its peak, a statue of the Virgin Mary was to be placed, symbolizing the Christian theme of the Annunciation alongside the angel atop the castle’s bell tower. However, due to the ambitious nature of the project and a shortage of building materials, the tower remains in its current, more modest form. Today, the bell tower houses the Museo del Duomo, largely dedicated to Blessed Bertrand of Saint-Geniès.

Architectural Highlights

As you approach Udine Cathedral, the imposing façade captures your attention. The main entrance, known as the Portal of Redemption, is a masterpiece from the 14th century crafted by an unknown German master. The portal features high-relief figures depicting the Redemption and is crowned by a pointed arch and a suspended porch added in 1926. Above it, a sharp gable houses the patriarchal eagle.

Another notable entrance is the Portal of the Coronation, created between 1395 and 1396 by a German sculptor. Although weather and pollution have significantly eroded its decorations, the portal still showcases intricate carvings of saints and biblical scenes. The most prominent feature is the Coronation of the Virgin, which gives the portal its name.

Flanking the rear of the cathedral along Via Vittorio Veneto are statues of the Annunciation and the Archangel Gabriel, crafted by an unknown artist in the latter half of the 14th century.

The Interior

Stepping inside Udine Cathedral, visitors are greeted by a Latin cross layout with three naves separated by pillars. The interior is predominantly Baroque, creating a striking contrast with the Romanesque-Gothic exterior. The Manin family’s renovations have left a lasting Baroque imprint on the cathedral’s design.

Among the many treasures inside, you will find the bust of Pope Pius IX by Vincenzo Luccardi from 1858, and the statue of Archbishop Zaccaria Bricito by Luigi Minisini from the same year. The wooden pulpit, supported by marble pillars, was designed by Giuseppe Torretto in 1737 and features scenes from the life of Saint Hermagore, sculpted by Mattia Mauricer, a student of Torretto.

The Chapels

Udine Cathedral boasts several chapels, each with its unique history and artistic significance. The Chapel of Saint Mark, located to the left, was built in the late 15th century and later remodeled in 1720 by Giorgio Massari. It houses a remarkable altarpiece by Giovanni Martini, depicting Saint Mark and Saint John the Baptist with other saints.

The Chapel of Saint Joseph, constructed in 1500, was commissioned by the Council of Udine as a vow to Saint Joseph for protection against Turkish incursions. The altarpiece, painted by Pellegrino da San Daniele, features Saint Joseph holding the infant Jesus, with the artist’s self-portrait included among the figures.

Another noteworthy chapel is the Chapel of Our Lady of Divine Providence, commissioned in 1720 by the confraternities of San Nicolò di Rauscedo and San Girolamo degli Schiavoni. The altar is adorned with statues of angels by Giuseppe Torretto and a bas-relief depicting Saint Nicholas and Saint Jerome.

Udine Cathedral is more than just a place of worship; it is a living museum of art, history, and architecture. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to this magnificent cathedral will leave you with a profound appreciation for the cultural heritage of Udine and the enduring legacy of its people.