Quadriportico della Canonica
Museum | Novara | Piemonte | Italy
The Quadriportico della Canonica in Novara is a significant medieval courtyard that forms the heart of the Canonica del Duomo di Novara. This cloister, enclosing the east, north, and west wings of the building, serves as a connection between different parts of the complex and now houses the Musei della Canonica del Duomo di Novara.
History and Architecture:
The origins of the Quadriportico date back to the 12th century, when it was built under Bishop Litifredo as a "claustrum" for the clerics of the local church. Over the centuries, the cloister underwent various expansions and renovations that shaped its current form. The walls of the Quadriportico are adorned with numerous artworks and historical artifacts reflecting the rich history of the region.
Museums and Collections:
Within the Quadriportico are the Musei della Canonica del Duomo di Novara, divided into three main areas:
Lapidary Museum: This section houses a collection of Roman inscriptions, stone monuments, and epigraphs dating from the 2nd century BC to the 3rd century AD. The exhibits are thematically grouped, providing insight into the ancient history of the region.
Treasure Museum of the Cathedral: Here, liturgical items, vestments, and artworks from various eras are displayed, emphasizing the religious and cultural significance of the cathedral. The collection includes liturgical garments, altar vessels, and sacred artworks.
Chapter Hall: This room houses the oldest documents and manuscripts from the chapter archive, including medieval manuscripts and liturgical books offering valuable insights into the history of the church and the city of Novara.
Significance for the Region:
The Quadriportico della Canonica and the adjacent museums play a central role in preserving and presenting the cultural heritage of Novara. They serve as educational centers and meeting places for the community, contributing to the promotion of cultural tourism in the region. The museums are open to the public on weekends and can be visited during the week by appointment.
Overall, the Quadriportico della Canonica makes a valuable contribution to understanding the history and culture of Novara and is an important part of the city's cultural life.
