One of the most fascinating and well-preserved monuments of ancient Assisi, the Temple of Minerva, built in the 1St century B.C., is a Roman temple dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and war after whom it takes its name, and represents an extraordinary example of Roman architecture in Italy.
Located in the Piazza del Comune, the temple is a silent witness to the long and rich history of the city. Here’s everything you need to know about this extraordinary building.
Architecture and preservation
The Temple of Minerva stands out for its classical facade, composed of six Corinthian columns supporting a triangular pediment. The travertine columns are surprisingly well preserved and offer a clear picture of the majesty of Roman architecture. Behind the facade is the cella, the inner part of the temple, which originally housed the statue of the goddess Minerva.
Transformations over time
Over the centuries, the Temple of Minerva has undergone several changes. In the medieval period, the building was converted into a Christian church, and it is now known as the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. This transformation contributed to its preservation, allowing the temple to survive through the centuries. The interior of the church features Baroque decorations, a charming contrast with the sobriety of the classical facade.
The Temple in the heart of Assisi
The Temple of Minerva is located in the lively Piazza del Comune, which has been the center of Assisi’s political and social life since Roman times. The presence of the temple in the square is a mark of the religious and social relevance it had in ancient times. Today the square is a meeting place for residents and tourists, and the temple continues to be a cultural and historical landmark.
Events and celebrations
Throughout the year, the Temple of Minerva and the Piazza del Comune host various events and celebrations, ranging from historical re-enactments to religious and cultural events. These events offer the opportunity to experience the history and traditions of Assisi in a unique setting, allowing visitors to appreciate the historical heritage of the city.
Visits to the Minerva Temple
A visit to the Temple of Minerva is a must-do experience for anyone who travels to Assisi. With its imposing façade and its thousand-year history, the Temple offers a fascinating glimpse of Roman antiquity. A visit to the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva will allows you to appreciate the historical and artistic stratifications that characterize this monument.
Practical information
The Temple of Minerva is easily accessible from the Piazza del Comune, the beating heart of Assisi. The square is surrounded by cafes, restaurants and shops, making the visit a pleasant and complete experience. You should also make time to discover the other historical attractions the square offers, such as the Palazzo dei Priori and the Torre del Popolo.
Ultimately, the Temple of Minerva is much more than just an ancient monument; it is a symbol of the historical and cultural continuity of Assisi: by staying at the BV Grand Hotel Assisi you will be able to immerse yourself in the millennial history of this beautiful city and appreciate its timeless architectural beauty.
Image source: Georges Jansoone, CC BY-SA 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/, via Wikimedia Commons
