Sovana, a hamlet of Sorano (GR) - Church of Santa Maria Maggiore - One of the most beautiful villages in Italy - Tuscany
- Tuttitaly
- Sep 28, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
On 22 April 1073 Ildebrando Aldobrandeschi of Sovana became Pope with the name of Gregory VII, giving his hometown great importance, so much so that it became the main seat of a vast county and an important fortified garrison... #tuttitaly
In Tuscany, the picturesque village of Sovana, a fraction of the municipality of Sorano, tells a story that dates back centuries before Christ. Its origins date back to the 7th century BC, when farmers and shepherds began to settle on the heights overlooking the Fiora River. This historic center was known as "Suana" and, over the centuries, developed around an Etruscan necropolis, under the influence of the powerful Aldobrandeschi family.
Sovana was of great importance in the 6th century, establishing itself as a Municipium during the Roman period. Its architectural beauty is witnessed by emblematic places such as the Aldobrandesca Fortress and the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, which marks the transition from Romanesque to Gothic art. However, over the years, the town has experienced dark periods, particularly due to epidemics that reduced the population and social activity.
One of the gems of Sovana is the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, located in Piazza del Pretorio. Dating back to the 12th century, this church has undergone looting and modifications over the centuries, but it still conserves artworks of great value. Among the treasures it houses are two frescoes from the 16th century and works depicting religious scenes, including the Madonna and Child and a stunning ciborium from the 9th century.
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