An important place of worship that is worth visiting is the Santa Maria della Consolazione church, in Todi. This place of international fame is located outside of the city’s historical walls. Santa Maria della Consolazione is a large church shrouded in great artistic history, a mystical legend and is considered to be an architectural example of the Italian renaissance.
The history of the design
The architectural design of the Santa Maria della Consolazione church in Todi is attributed to Donato Bramante. The idea of positioning the church outside of the city walls effectively recalls the better known design that Bramante is famous for: Saint Peter’s Basilica, in Rome, also located outside of the city. While it is true that there are no documents confirming that he is the author. However, it is known that many masters of the same school succeeded each other in the realisation of the project. Construction of Santa Maria della Consolazione began in 1508 and was completed about twenty years later, in 1607.
The legend connected to the Church
A miracle is linked to the construction of the Santa Maria della Consolazione church. The legend dates back to the beginning of the 16th century. A worker hired to demolish a wall of the old Santa Margherita convent discovered an old fresco of the Virgin Mary. He touched it with a handkerchief and then rubbed it over his ailing eye. He healed miraculously. Bishop Basilio Moscardi confirmed the miracle and named the church Consolazione.
How to get to Santa Maria della Consolazione
The Santa Maria della Consolazione church can be easily seen from a distance for people approaching Todi from Orvieto.
It can be easily reached from the autostrada del Sole highway. When arriving from the South, Rome,exit at Orte, from the North, Florence, Milan, exit at Valdichiana. Travelling along the E45 you exit at Todi.
The church is open all year long from 9 am to 6 pm approximately, with hours varying based on the months.
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