Basilica di San Nazaro in Brolo

The Basilica of the Holy Apostles and Saint Nazarus the Great, commonly known as the Basilica of San Nazaro in Brolo, stands as one of the oldest sacred structures in Milan, situated in the picturesque Piazza San Nazaro in Brolo.

This sacred site is acknowledged as the oldest Latin cross church in the history of Western art, designed in this form to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus, as evidenced by an inscription on the choir walls.

The entire complex includes the basilica itself, the subsequent Trivulzio Mausoleum, and the Chapel of Santa Caterina, both in Renaissance style. The Trivulzio Mausoleum, an imposing chapel designed by Bramantino, overshadowed the original facade of the basilica, significantly altering its appearance.

Alongside the basilicas Prophetarum, Martyrum, and Virginum, the Basilica Apostolorum is one of the four Ambrosian basilicas commissioned by Saint Ambrose.

The name "Brolo" originates from the Broletto Vecchio, also known as the Brolo dell'Arcivescovo or Brolo di Sant'Ambrogio, which once served as the governmental seat of the city during the communal period in the late Middle Ages.

This area, including the Basilica of San Nazario in Brolo, is part of the Brolo district. In 1251, the Broletto Vecchio lost its administrative function, transferring it to the Palazzo della Ragione, also known as the Broletto Nuovo. Subsequently, the Broletto Vecchio was transformed into the Royal Palace.

Constructed between 382 and 386 in the late Roman imperial period at the behest of the Bishop of Milan, Ambrose, the basilica suffered severe damage in a fire in 1075, leading to its reconstruction in the Romanesque style.

Over the centuries, it underwent numerous transformations, with internal renovations in the Neoclassical style between 1828 and 1832. This basilica stands as an important example of paleochristian architecture in Milan.

The right transept houses notable works of art. On the left side stands the Crucifixion by Bonino da Campione, a bas-relief from the 14th century vividly depicting the dead Christ on the cross, flanked by Mary and the apostle John in a prayerful stance.

On the right side is the Renaissance Last Supper by Bernardino Lanino.

Map: Basilica di San Nazaro in Brolo