The Sanctuary of Vescovio

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The Sanctuary of Vescovio is one of the best known and most important monuments of the Sabina and is located in the area where the Roman town hall “Forum Novum” was once situated. Santa Maria in Vescovio was the Sabine cathedral until 1495 when the diocese was moved to Magliano Sabina; the first testimonies date back to the 8th century. The cathedral was then destroyed by the Saracens in the 9th century and although over time it has undergone many renovations and changes it still preserves some distinctive Romanesque 12th century features. The Bell Tower is of particular interest. It was built later in time using recycled ancient materials such as sculptural fragments and marble slabs and has five rows of windows. Inside the 14th century Cavallini-school paintings (Cavallini is one of the most important artists of the Roman school) and 13th century frescoes representing Scenes from the Old and the New Testament decorate the church. From the chancel you can access the 11th century semicircular crypt through two different gates. The crypt was built on top of a previous church which itself was built on top of ancient Roman buildings. Near the church we can still see the remains of a cloister built at the end of the 16th century by the decree of Pope Clement VII.