Duomo di Carrara: A Marble Masterpiece

The Duomo di Carrara, formally known as the Collegiate Church of Sant'Andrea Apostolo, is a captivating landmark in the heart of Carrara, Italy. Dedicated to Saint Andrew, this cathedral is unique as the first medieval church constructed entirely of marble. The gleaming white Apuan marble, now famously known as Carrara marble, defines both the exterior and much of the interior. Originally, a church existed on this site as early as 1035, called Ecclesia Sancti Andree de Carraria, but only a bas-relief remains from that era. The first documented mention of the Carrara Cathedral dates to 1099. It achieved Pieve status after its initial enlargement in 1099. The cathedral's construction unfolded in phases, resulting in its distinctive blend of architectural styles. The lower section of the façade and the side near the St. John Portal showcase a bichrome decoration with geometrical marble designs, dating back to the early 12th century. These elements reflect Pisan Gothic influences, evident in the capitals and architrave, and echo the alternating black and white marble patterns found in Tuscan churches of Pisa and Lucca. The main portal and the capitals of the first three spans inside are attributed to the school of Maestor Wiligelmo. In 1151, the church fell under the jurisdiction of the Lateranense Canons of San Frediano of Lucca, initiating the second construction phase, which lasted until around 1235, when the apse was completed. The presbytery was added around this time, lengthening the building. The lateral walls depart from the bichrome decoration. Inside, Corinthian and Composite order capitals adorn the columns, while the mullioned windows feature leaf, human, and animal motifs, possibly inspired by ancient Roman structures in Lucca. The bell tower, standing at 33 meters, was erected in the 14th century. The façade, completed in the latter half of the 14th century, combines Romanesque and Gothic elements. The interior features a taller nave with exposed wooden trusses and two smaller cross-vaulted aisles. The cathedral houses the sarcophagus of St. Ceccardus, Carrara's patron saint, a 14th-century Annunciation sculpture (an example of Pisan sculpture), and a 14th-century wooden crucifix by Angelo Puccinelli. A white marble pulpit, installed in the 16th century, graces the presbytery. Outside the church stands the Statua del Gigante (Statue of the Giant) by Baccio Bandinelli. Today, the Duomo di Carrara stands as a symbol of the city's enduring connection to its marble heritage and its rich artistic legacy.