Overview
Architectural treasure of Abbiategrasso
In 1317, the Confraternity of Santa Maria della Misericordia was born in Abbiategrasso. A little over 50 years later, the congregation completed the building of the Basilica, a true masterpiece of religious architecture that can still be visited today on the outskirts of Milan. The structure we see today, however, is very different from the original, with a gabled brick façade and traditional medieval Lombardy details.
The complex in front of you comprises the church, the Oratory of the Addolorata and a large 16th-century four-sided portico, with an irregular shape featuring round arches and small columns with gothic capitals.
The name of the Basilica has also changed over time. The church was originally dedicated to Santa Maria della Misericordia, named after the confraternity. The Abbiatensi then chose to rename it Santa Maria Nuova to set it apart from Santa Maria Vecchia, a place of worship now deconsecrated and located in the ancient heart of the city.
Via Giuseppe Borsani, 20081 Abbiategrasso MI, Italia
