On May 29th
2012, after a strong earthquake, the lantern of the bell-tower of the St.
Barbara’s Church collapsed down. In a month time, a special crew of firemen
saved the dome of the bell-tower, making it safe. It has been an extraordinary
work of engineering. At a height of 56 meters (156 feet).
The church
of Santa Barbara, which had the role of Palace chapel ("Basilica
Palatina") for the Gonzagas, was built in 1562-1572 by Giovanni Battista
Bertani, commissioned by Duke Guglielmo.
It has been
dedicated to Saint Barbara, in memory of Barbara of Brandenburg (i.e. the
Marchioness of Mantua, portrayed by Mantegna in the “Bridal Chamber”), the
great-great grandmother of Duke Guglielmo.
Saint
Barbara is also the patron saint of firemen. For this reason we want to publish
some pictures regarding the great job
the firemen did to save the dome of the bell-tower Church.
The Ducal
Palace is still quite completely closed. The restoration works have already
started, but they will take a long time. And they require money. The portrait
of the Marchioness Barbara, frescoed by Mantegna along with the other members
of her family, awaits – and deserves – help.
VisitMantua
is now working with a great friend of us, La Mode Diplomatique, to plan some
actions in supporting the fundraising
and the restorations.
Follow us to be updated on this topic: Mantegna and the
Ducal Palace need your help!
A third of the Ducal Palace is now reopened: discover more reading this post.
Mantegna’s frescoes have been creaked by an earthquake.
Let the world know:
Send Tweet #perMantegna, and share the SOS