The Oratory of San Giorgio (St. George’s Oratory) is an exquisite chapel in the city’s historic heart. Adorned by a cycle of preserved frescoes by acclaimed 14th-century artist Altichiero da Zevio, the Oratory of San Giorgio presents a tranquil setting to appreciate some of the era’s finest masterworks.
Check out the chapel’s elegant brick façade, which has a central archway and a series of carved stone emblems. Step inside to experience being surrounded by some of the city’s most cherished artistic creations. Altichiero da Zevio’s remarkable frescoes date back to the chapel’s initial completion in 1379. History did not treat the Oratory of San Giorgio as well as some of the other frescoed sanctuaries in the city. The walls were whitewashed during the Napoleonic wars and damaged considerably before being rediscovered in 1837.
Wander around the chapel’s single nave, which has a barrel vaulted ceiling and tall windows. A series of frameworks separate the painted scenes, giving the frescoes a narrative system. At the entryway and near the altar, see frescoes that depict stories of Christ and Mary. The Coronation of the Virgin and the Crucifixion are among the highlights.
Along the walls that run lengthwise find frescoes devoted to the saints. Follow the story of St. George’s martyrdom and check out the four scenes dedicated to St. Lucy and St. Catherine. Look up to see the exquisite fresco depicting a starry sky. The walls and vault are separated by richly decorated frames, which allow visitors to appreciate each scene in isolation. Appreciate the technical genius of Altichiero da Zevio’s creations that are noted for their rich architectural settings and a serene sense of space. Upstairs, look for the chapel’s Scoletta del Santo (confraternity house), which holds a significant collection of paintings by Titian.
The Oratory of San Giorgio is located in the Piazza del Santo in the city’s historic center, alongside the Basilica di Sant’Antonio. There is a fee to enter the chapel, which is open daily with a short closure at lunchtime.
