Chiesa di Santa Maria Primerana

Santa Maria Primerana stands beside the Palazzo Pretorio in Fiesole's Piazza Mino. Documented by the tenth century, the church combines medieval fabric with paintings and sculpture added over later centuries.

Why it matters

Its position on the area of the ancient Roman forum links the church with the long development of Fiesole's centre. The neighbouring civic palace and the cathedral across the square give it a place within the town's civic and religious ensemble.

What to notice

A single barrel-vaulted nave ends in a transept and Gothic presbytery. Painted walls attributed to Niccolò di Pietro Gerini accompany a thirteenth-century panel by the Maestro di Rovezzano. Other works include two reliefs by Francesco da Sangallo, a painted crucifix attributed to Bonaccorso di Cino and a terracotta altarpiece from Andrea della Robbia's workshop.

Context and history

The church occupies a site associated with an ancient temple. Medieval enlargement produced the Gothic presbytery, while later furnishings added Renaissance sculpture and glazed terracotta. These layers connect the building's early documented presence with subsequent forms of devotional art.