Rotonda di San Lorenzo

While Mantua is famous for its Renaissance splendor, the Rotonda di San Lorenzo offers something entirely different: a raw, mystical journey back to the 11th century. It is the oldest church in the city, and stepping inside feels like entering a time capsule. Unlike the rectangular basilicas nearby, this church is perfectly round. It was built in 1082 by the famous Matilda of Canossa, inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. The most fascinating part of its history is that for centuries, this church disappeared. In the 1500s, the Duke (Guglielmo Gonzaga) closed it, and it was eventually swallowed up by private houses and shops built around and over it. It was only "rediscovered" and freed from the clutter in the early 20th century.

Absolutely breathtaking piece - a must visit in Mantova. It has a special atmosphere, and the pictures don't really do it justice. Free entry. It's really small, so you only need like ten minutes to take it in properly.

Adjacent to the Clock Tower. Free entry. There are two floors : the upper floor is the women's gallery - the space reserved for women however when we were there, just the ground level is open for visiting. Originally it was completely frescoed, now only fragments remain. Faded fresco portraying the Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence. Amazing that a church with a thousand year history, was hidden at least for three centuries. 1906 - is the year the municipality of Mantua authorised the construction of a road that connects Piazza Erbe to Porto Catena. For this reason, the houses that were close to the the market square were demolished and this treasure was discovered.

I would love to travel back in time to see this 11th century church when it was new. Sadly it was abandoned as a church in the 1500s. The few remaining frescoes are amazing.

Small place but should not miss it.

Amazing historical church

Reminds me of one same that we have here in Greece, in Thessaloniki, and it proves that countries had commercial and architectural relationships.

Just opposite the Basilica di Sant'Andrea is a lovely little chapel called “Rotonda di San Lorenzo”. The most ancient church in the city (11th century), inspired by the Holy Sepulchre Church in Jerusalem and dedicated to St Lawrence. Completely round with beautiful Byzantine frescoes. You can feel the history as soon as you walk in the door and also a great way to escape from the heat for a few minutes. A card (in various languages) is available at the entrance explaining several features. Very well worth a few minutes of your time.