Acqui, originally "Carystum" the ancient capital of the Ligurian Statielli, changed its name in “Aquae Statiellae” during Roman conquest (2nd century BC). The city has been stratified over the centuries, and every era has left its mark. In addition to the Roman ruins, the Middle Ages is one of the periods that has the greatest ones still visible.
Description: our itinerary includes the arrival at the cathedral after a short walk through the old-town. We will arrive at the climb that leads to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Acqui is one of the oldest dioceses in Piedmont. The first bishop was Saint Maggiorino in the 4th century.
The church was consecrated on 11th November 1067 by the bishop-count Guido, venerated as the patron saint of the city. The church was built by Lombard craftsmen in the form of a Romanesque building with a latin cross plan and projecting transept. Originally with three naves, they became five in the 18th century, with side chapels.
Over the centuries it has undergone many modifications and enrichments, especially in the 18th century, but the older structure has retained its imprint of strong spirituality.
We will then visit the whole church, especially the crypt and then move on to the Chapter Room, where we will admire a rare Spanish 15th-century triptych: the Virgin of Montserrat.
Work of the most famous Spanish painter of the fifteenth century, Bartolomeo de Cardenas, known for his Spanish-Flemish pictorial style. A piece of rare beauty whose story we will discover together.
We will know the history of Monferrato in the 15th century, its economy, its trade, the importance of Acqui as a trading center and its merchant families.
Duration: about 2 hours
Dogs: not allowed, anyway ask info
Contribution to the association: to be defined
Clothing: Comfortable
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