Discover the Church of San Bartolomeo, Faenza’s War Memorial Shrine
During the traditional Summer Tuesdays, which bring Faenza’s historic center to life with street markets, live entertainment, and extended opening hours for local shops, residents and visitors will have the opportunity to rediscover one of the city’s most fascinating landmarks. On the evenings of July 7, 14, 21, and 28, 2026, the Church of San Bartolomeo – War Memorial Shrine to the Fallen of All Wars will open its doors to the public with special evening hours, from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
These special openings are made possible through a collaboration agreement between the Municipality of Faenza and volunteers from the Alpini Group, who are dedicated to opening the church, maintaining the building, and caring for its historic garden.
A Brief History: From Roman Origins to National Monument
- ️ Ancient origins: Founded in the 9th century on a hill that, during Roman times, was home to the palatium regium, San Bartolomeo is one of the oldest buildings in the city of Faenza.
- Reconstruction: Following a devastating fire, the church was completely rebuilt in the Romanesque style in 1209, becoming closely linked to the history of Faenza’s noble families.
- ️ Twentieth-century restoration: After a long period of decline, inspector Gaetano Ballardini promoted a complete restoration, leading to the church being designated a National Monument. In 1935, it was consecrated as a Votive Temple and Memorial Shrine to the Fallen.
The Interior Architecture and the Path of Remembrance
Today, the church presents a harmonious blend of its original Romanesque structure and elegant artistic additions dating from the 1920s and 1930s.
- Artistic features: Highlights include a terracotta floor with distinctive Art Nouveau influences, ornamental Art Deco braziers, and the striking painted cross created by artist Roberto Sella.
- ️ The Memorial Shrine: The walls are lined with large marble plaques engraved with the names of soldiers from Faenza who fell during the First World War, topped by memorial registers dedicated to the victims of the Second World War.
- Altar inscriptions: On either side of the main altar are two historic inscriptions. One commemorates those who died during the African campaigns and the Spanish Civil War; the other lists the names of the 54 soldiers buried in the church’s underground crypt.
Visitor Information
- Opening dates: Tuesdays, July 7, 14, 21, and 28, 2026.
- ⏰ Opening hours: From 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
- Location: Corner of Corso Matteotti and Via Scaletta – 48018 Faenza (RA), Italy.
- Admission: Free and open to everyone.
