San Vittore

San Vittore, also known locally as Basilica di San Vittore, stands proudly in the heart of Rho, Italy. This magnificent neoclassical basilica, dedicated to Saint Victor the Moor, is not only a place of worship but also a testament to centuries of history and architectural evolution. Located in the central Piazza San Vittore, the basilica invites visitors to step back in time and explore its rich heritage and artistic splendor.

The Historical Journey of San Vittore

The origins of the Basilica of San Vittore can be traced back to the 8th century, with the first church dedicated to Saint Victor the Moor. Historical documents from as early as 1080 mention the church, indicating its long-standing significance in the community of Rho. At that time, the church had a different orientation, with its entrance facing west towards what is now Piazza Visconti, where a cemetery once existed.

Throughout the centuries, the church underwent several restorations. In 1596, it was refurbished but remained a modest structure, measuring 18 meters in length and 12 meters in width. By the 19th century, the church had fallen into such disrepair that a decision was made to either restore or rebuild it. Ultimately, a new, grander church was constructed on the site of the old cemetery, with the entrance now facing east.

The Modern Neoclassical Basilica

The current structure of San Vittore was erected starting on September 14, 1834, based on the designs of architects Besia and Aluisetti. Initially, the project included two bell towers, each approximately 34 meters high. However, in 1889, stability issues led to the demolition of the left tower, leaving only the right tower, which was later extended by Perucchetti to reach a height of 58.40 meters.

The portico, with its simple yet severe altar, was designed by Milanese architect Giacomo Moraglia in 1852. The interior of the basilica is adorned with paintings by Beghè of Milan, under the direction of Don Moioli. The sixteen stained-glass windows, crafted by Cisterna of Rome and executed by painter Giulio Cesare Giuliani, along with others by Tevarotto of Milan, add to the basilica's artistic charm. Some of the artworks within the basilica are attributed to the school of Luini, while many are the works of Bosoni, including depictions of Saint Teresa of the Child Jesus and the Stations of the Cross.

The construction of the basilica, as it stands today, was completed on October 18, 1847, and it was consecrated in a ceremony presided over by the then-Archbishop of Milan, Monsignor Luigi Nazari di Calabiana.

Piazza San Vittore and the Plague Cross

Adjacent to the basilica in Piazza San Vittore stands the Plague Cross. Originally located at the crossroads of the piazza, the cross was moved next to the church in 1927 due to traffic concerns. During its relocation, a rusted box was discovered containing a simple note and eleven relics sealed with a paschal candle. The note, written by Monsignor Giuseppe Benetti, indicated that the cross was erected by Father Pietro Paolo Castelli from Milan, a guardian of the Capuchins of Rho, who donated the relics himself on Saint Ambrose's Day in 1663. In 1998, the cross was returned to its original location as part of a plaza renovation.

The Bells of San Vittore

The original set of bells, housed in the old bell tower rebuilt in 1889, consisted of six larger bells cast by Felice Bizzozero of Varese. In 1962, three smaller bells were added by Roberto Mazzola of Valduggia, bringing the total to nine. The bell tower also contains two additional bells, tuned to E-flat4 and E5, mounted in the Ambrosian style. The largest bell, cast by the Barigozzi brothers' foundry based on a design by architect Ratti of Rho, features a Gothic silhouette with modern acoustic characteristics. The smallest bell originates from the now-demolished Oratory of San Luigi Gonzaga.

The bell ensemble is tuned to C3 Major and follows the Ambrosian system, a distinctive feature that adds to the unique charm of San Vittore.

In conclusion, San Vittore is more than just a basilica; it is a repository of history, art, and culture. Its walls echo the stories of centuries past, from its early beginnings in the 8th century to its grand neoclassical reconstruction. A visit to San Vittore is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Rho and the enduring legacy of Saint Victor the Moor.