San Nicolò Church
A Northern Italian Gothic masterpiece, San Nicolò Church boasts unique architecture and stunning frescoes by Tommaso da Modena.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
San Nicolò Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Northern Italian Gothic masterpiece, San Nicolò Church boasts unique architecture and stunning frescoes by Tommaso da Modena.
"Northern Italian Gothic masterpiece with impressive building and unique tall walls and wood ceiling."
Look for the "Treviso Mona Lisa"
Seek out this famous fresco by Tommaso da Modena for a unique artistic encounter. :art:
Appreciate the Sun Alignment
Visit on the winter solstice to see the sun perfectly hit the medallions. :sunrise:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tommaso da Modena Frescoes
Interior
Vibrant frescoes depicting saints, attributed to Tommaso da Modena and his school, adorn the columns.
Unique Gothic Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Experience the blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles with tall walls, a wooden ceiling, and precise sun alignment.
Cappella Onigo
Presbytery
Features the funeral monument of Agostino Onigo and 16th-century paintings by Lorenzo Lotto.
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Planning Your Visit
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Understanding its Artistic Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Look for the "Treviso Mona Lisa"
Seek out this famous fresco by Tommaso da Modena for a unique artistic encounter. :art:
Appreciate the Sun Alignment
Visit on the winter solstice to see the sun perfectly hit the medallions. :sunrise:
Admire the Wooden Ceiling
The unique carined wooden ceiling is a distinctive architectural feature. :wood:
Check for Construction
Ongoing works might affect views, so check ahead for access. :construction_worker:
Tips
from all over the internet
Look for the "Treviso Mona Lisa"
Seek out this famous fresco by Tommaso da Modena for a unique artistic encounter. :art:
Appreciate the Sun Alignment
Visit on the winter solstice to see the sun perfectly hit the medallions. :sunrise:
Admire the Wooden Ceiling
The unique carined wooden ceiling is a distinctive architectural feature. :wood:
Check for Construction
Ongoing works might affect views, so check ahead for access. :construction_worker:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise San Nicolò Church as a Northern Italian Gothic masterpiece with unique architecture and significant frescoes by Tommaso da Modena. Its solemn interior and historical importance are frequently highlighted, though ongoing construction can sometimes detract from the experience.
"This beautiful monumental church is located in the south-western part of the historic center, on the left bank of the Sile, in an area mostly recently built as it was severely damaged by the bombings of 1944. Attached to the building is the former Dominican convent, today episcopal seminary. The Church of San Nicolò was built in the early 1300s by the Dominicans also thanks to the substantial bequests of the friar Niccolò Boccalino, better known as Pope Benedict XI. With its simple shapes, but elongated upwards, with the massive perimeter walls just broken by thin slits from which a light enters tempered by the ancient windows, the Church of San Nicolò marks a moment of transition between the robust Romanesque style and the elegant Gothic of transalpine origin. The interior of S. Nicolò has a large space, where you can breathe a pleasant atmosphere of brightness that is reflected in the warm and golden tones of the brick. The Latin cross of the building is divided into three naves cut by a transept on which five parallel apse chapels open. The columns, which support the simple carined wooden ceiling, show frescoes by Tommaso da Modena, present in the second column on the left, depicting San Girolamo, Santa Agnese and San Romualdo. Other frescoes in the church are attributed to his school, although not directly to the teacher. There are 12 columns such as the number of the Apostles, among which the first 2 are in stone. In the presbytery, there is the funeral monument of Agostino Onigo (15th century), a valuable sculptural work by Giovanni Buora and Pietro, Antonio and Tullio Lombardo. Wonderful paintings belong to Lorenzo Lotto, Giovanni Buonconsiglio and Girolamo Pennacchi with the collaboration of Giovanni Matteo da Treviso. The important people of Treviso in the Cappella Onigo were painted by Lorenzo Lotto in the 16th century. The patrons of the time wanted the masters to build the temple with a precise arrangement of windows, medallions and frescoes. Thus the church was built at an angle of 91 degrees and 4 minutes with respect to the line of the sun, and on the day of the winter solstice, around noon, the rays hit perfectly the six medallions arranged on the north side of the church."
Asiyah Noemi Koso
"Northern Italian Gothic masterpiece. Look for the Savoldo altarpiece and the "Treviso Mona Lisa"."
GLoi
"Impressive building."
Nataliia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
San Nicolò Church is located in the south-western part of Treviso's historic center. It's easily accessible on foot from the main city areas. If arriving by car, look for public parking facilities near the historic center. Public transport options within Treviso are also available, with bus stops typically located a short walk away.
Yes, the church is a prominent landmark within the historic center. Its tall walls and distinctive architecture make it visible. Follow signs for the historic center or use a GPS navigation app for precise directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to San Nicolò Church is generally free, as it is a functioning place of worship and a historical monument. However, it's always a good idea to check for any special exhibitions or events that might require a ticket or have specific visiting hours.
Opening hours can vary, especially on Sundays and holidays. It's recommended to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Typically, there is no entrance fee to visit the San Nicolò Church itself. Donations are often welcome to help with its upkeep and preservation.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
San Nicolò Church is a prime example of Northern Italian Gothic architecture, marking a transition from the robust Romanesque style. It features tall walls, a unique carined wooden ceiling, and a precise orientation to the sun.
Inside, you'll find frescoes by Tommaso da Modena and his school, including the famous "Treviso Mona Lisa." The presbytery houses the funeral monument of Agostino Onigo and paintings by Lorenzo Lotto.
Photography is usually permitted inside churches for personal use, but flash photography is often discouraged to protect the artworks. It's best to be discreet and respectful of other visitors and any services taking place.
Accessibility can vary in historic buildings. While the main areas might be accessible, some parts, like upper levels or certain chapels, may have stairs. It's advisable to inquire in advance if you have specific accessibility needs.
The 12 columns inside San Nicolò Church are symbolic, representing the 12 Apostles. This detail highlights the religious and artistic intentions behind the church's design.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the church is located in Treviso's historic center, which is filled with numerous restaurants, cafes, and trattorias offering local Venetian cuisine. You'll find options ranging from casual eateries to more formal dining experiences.
Near San Nicolò Church, try regional specialties like 'radicchio tardivo' (a local chicory), 'bigoli in salsa' (thick spaghetti with anchovy sauce), and 'tiramisu,' which is said to have originated in the Veneto region.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior offers great views, especially with the bell tower. Inside, focus on the frescoes, the wooden ceiling, and the architectural details. The presbytery with the Onigo monument is also a key photographic subject.
For exterior shots, early morning or late afternoon light provides beautiful illumination. Inside, diffused light from the windows can be ideal for capturing frescoes, though it can be dim.
Don't miss capturing the unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements, the intricate frescoes by Tommaso da Modena, and the impressive wooden ceiling. The precise angle of the church for the winter solstice is also a fascinating detail to research and potentially capture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Nearby, you can find family-friendly eateries for a break. The church's location in the historic center also means you can combine the visit with a stroll through Treviso's charming streets, making for a well-rounded family outing. Remember to discuss respectful behavior in a place of worship beforehand.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the Cappella Onigo and the funeral monument of Agostino Onigo for sculptural and historical insights. The church's precise alignment with the winter solstice is a fascinating detail for those interested in the intersection of art, science, and religion in the medieval period. Allow ample time to absorb the details and appreciate the historical context of each element.
📸 Photographers
Inside, the diffused light can be ideal for capturing the intricate details of the frescoes and the wooden ceiling. Focus on the interplay of light and shadow, the textures of the stone and wood, and the vibrant colors of the frescoes. The "Treviso Mona Lisa" and other artworks are key subjects. Be mindful of lighting conditions and any restrictions on flash photography to ensure you get the best shots while respecting the sanctity of the site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: A Gothic Transition
The interior is equally impressive, featuring a spacious layout in the form of a Latin cross divided into three naves. These naves are separated by columns that support a distinctive carined wooden ceiling. The choice of materials and the upward elongation of the structure contribute to a sense of verticality and spiritual aspiration. The church's construction was influenced by patrons who desired a temple with a specific arrangement of windows, medallions, and frescoes, reflecting a desire for both artistic and scientific harmony.
This blend of structural innovation and artistic intent makes San Nicolò Church a must-visit for anyone interested in medieval architecture and the evolution of Gothic styles in Italy. Its enduring presence in Treviso offers a tangible link to the city's rich historical and cultural past.
Artistic Treasures Within
Beyond the frescoes, the church houses significant works of art in its presbytery. The funeral monument of Agostino Onigo, a 15th-century piece, is a notable sculptural work by Giovanni Buora and the Lombardo family. Furthermore, the church boasts wonderful paintings by artists such as Lorenzo Lotto, Giovanni Buonconsiglio, and Girolamo Pennacchi, with contributions from Giovanni Matteo da Treviso. The Cappella Onigo specifically features important figures of Treviso painted by Lorenzo Lotto in the 16th century, offering a glimpse into the city's prominent families and artistic patronage of the era.
These artistic elements, from the detailed frescoes to the monumental sculptures and paintings, transform San Nicolò Church into an open-air museum, providing a rich visual experience that complements its architectural grandeur.
The "Treviso Mona Lisa" and Other Artistic Gems
In addition to Modena's work, the church is home to other significant paintings. The Savoldo altarpiece is frequently mentioned as a must-see, showcasing the distinct style of this Renaissance painter. The Cappella Onigo is particularly rich in art, featuring portraits of influential Trevisan figures by Lorenzo Lotto, a master of Venetian Renaissance painting. These works not only demonstrate the artistic prowess of the period but also offer historical context about the patrons and society of Treviso.
Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring these artistic details, as they contribute significantly to the overall cultural and historical value of San Nicolò Church. The combination of architectural splendor and these remarkable artworks makes it a compelling destination.
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