Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Mark

The Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Mark, locally known as Chiesa cattedrale dei Santi Pietro e Marco in Alessandria, stands as a magnificent testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of the city of Alessandria in Italy. This neoclassical gem, with its towering campanile and intricate facade, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the spiritual and cultural heart of the region.

The History of the Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Mark

The story of the Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Mark is one of resilience and transformation. The original cathedral, dedicated to Saint Peter, was constructed between 1170 and 1175. However, by the late 13th century, it became apparent that the church was too small to accommodate the growing congregation. Under the guidance of the architect Ruffino Bottino da Casale, substantial enlargements were made, giving the cathedral a grander presence.

Tragically, the ancient cathedral met its demise in the early 19th century when it was demolished by order of Napoleon during his urban reorganization of the city. However, the spirit of the cathedral lived on. The bishop and the cathedral chapter successfully petitioned the French general to allow them to designate the Church of Saint Mark, originally built in the 13th century and previously owned by the Dominicans, as the new cathedral. This church had been confiscated by the French in 1797 and used as their headquarters, necessitating extensive restoration work before it could serve its new purpose.

Between 1807 and 1810, architect Cristoforo Valizzone led the reconstruction efforts, transforming the church into a neoclassical masterpiece. The cathedral was blessed and reopened for worship in December 1810, now bearing the dual dedication to Saint Peter and Saint Mark. Further restoration work took place between 1874 and 1879, led by Emilio Arboreo Vella, culminating in the cathedral's consecration on July 4, 1879.

The Exterior of the Cathedral

The facade of the Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Mark is a striking example of neoclassical architecture, completed by Cristoforo and Leopoldo Valizzone between 1820 and 1822. It features four frescoes by Luigi Vacca, depicting scenes from the life of the Apostle Peter, with a depiction of God the Father in the tympanum. Atop the facade stand five statues representing Jesus and the four evangelists, adding a sense of divine guardianship over the cathedral.

Adjacent to the facade is the imposing campanile, a true symbol of Alessandria. Designed by architect Giuseppe Antonio Boidi Trotti, this eclectic structure was built over 33 years, from 1889 to 1922. Standing at 106 meters tall, the campanile incorporates innovative structural elements typical of the transitional period between the 19th and 20th centuries. It features a metal cage supporting the spire, with four rose windows and a large bell crafted by Pietro Gattinara in 1818, alongside four additional bells from 1901.

The Interior of the Cathedral

Stepping inside the Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Mark, visitors are greeted by a grand interior with three naves and a spacious presbytery. The left side entrance features a Genoese school painting from the 17th century, depicting the Madonna leading Saint Teresa to venerate Saint Joseph. The main altar, crafted in 1954 by sculptor Sacchelli and Luigi Frascarolo, stands as a recent addition to the cathedral's rich artistic heritage.

The cathedral's interior is adorned with five stained glass windows by Dalle Ceste and an impressive organ built in 1929 by the Balbiani organ company, restored in 2008. The organ, with its electric transmission, is situated in two matronea overlooking the presbytery, with a console featuring three keyboards and a pedalboard.

One of the most historically significant features of the cathedral is its dome, designed by Emilio Arboreo Vella. Constructed between 1875 and 1879, the dome commemorates the 700th anniversary of the Lombard League's victory over Barbarossa at the Battle of Legnano. It boasts 24 niches, each housing a statue of the patron saints of the 24 cities that formed the Lombard League, complete with their respective coats of arms.

The presbytery also houses a baroque-style choir from the 18th century, featuring encaustic scenes from the life of Saint Peter by painter Costantino Sereno. Above the choir is a painting of Saint Peter enthroned between Saint Paul and Saint John the Baptist, an unfinished work by Callisto Piazza dating back to 1546.

The Side Chapels

The cathedral boasts ten side chapels, each with its unique charm and historical significance. On the left side, visitors can find the baptistery, the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception with its black marble altar and paintings by Guglielmo Caccia, the Chapel of the Rosary decorated by Giorgio Boasso, the Chapel of Saint Baudolino, and the Chapel of Saint Joseph with its marble altar and baroque statue by Giacomo Francesco Parodi.

On the right side, the Chapel of the Crucifix features an 11th-century icon and paintings attributed to Jacopo da Ponte. The Chapel of Saint Pius houses a painting by Francesco Mensi, while the Chapel of Saint John Nepomucene showcases an 18th-century painting with a Byzantine underpainting. The Chapel of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is adorned with decorations by Giorgio Boasso and statues from Ortisei, and the Chapel of the Blessed Virgin of Salve contains the reliquary of the Holy Cross and the Sacred Thorn.

The Sacristy and Chapter House

The sacristy and chapter house of the cathedral are home to an impressive collection of 16th-century paintings by Moncalvo, a Madonna of the Rosary by Carlo Aliberti, and a painting of Joseph sold by his brothers attributed to Grechetto. These artworks, along with various precious lapidary and liturgical objects, add to the cathedral's rich cultural and artistic heritage.

In conclusion, the Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Mark is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of art, history, and faith. Its walls and halls echo the stories of centuries past, offering visitors a profound connection to the spiritual and cultural journey of Alessandria. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a pilgrim seeking solace, the cathedral promises an unforgettable experience that transcends time and space.