Cappella Colleoni, Bergamo

Church in Bergamo

Cappella Colleoni Bergamo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ben Bender

Tucked beside the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Bergamo Alta, the Colleoni Chapel is one of the must-see places in Bergamo for lovers of Renaissance art and architecture. Commissioned by the renowned condottiere Bartolomeo Colleoni, the chapel embodies both his military prestige and deep personal devotion. Its polychrome marble façade and gilded interior make it a visual masterpiece that rivals any Florentine or Venetian chapel of its era.

More than a resting place, the Colleoni Chapel is a statement of artistic excellence and personal legacy. Its striking contrast of red, white, and black marble shines in the Lombard sunlight, while the gilded equestrian statue of Colleoni inside reflects the power and pride of a man who shaped much of Bergamo's history. A highlight of any walking tour of Bergamo, this chapel is a monument to ambition, artistry, and enduring faith.

History and Significance of the Colleoni Chapel

Built between 1472 and 1476, the Colleoni Chapel was conceived as the personal mausoleum of Bartolomeo Colleoni, one of Bergamo's most distinguished figures and a celebrated condottiere in the service of Venice. Determined to leave a lasting mark on his native city, Colleoni ordered the demolition of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore's sacristy to make room for his grand chapel—a controversial act that may or may not have been sanctioned by the church authorities. His decision, however audacious, produced one of the most exquisite monuments of the Italian Renaissance.

Giovanni Antonio Amadeo, the chapel’s architect, harmonized classical and local traditions, employing intricate polychrome marble and sculptural reliefs that exemplify Lombard craftsmanship at its finest. Dedicated to Saints Bartholomew, Mark, and John the Baptist, the chapel also enshrines the tomb of Colleoni’s beloved daughter, Medea, who died before its completion. Together, their monuments fuse the humanistic spirit of the Renaissance with the eternal themes of love, loss, and remembrance.

Over time, the chapel became a symbol of Bergamo's artistic identity and one of the top sights in Bergamo Alta. It unites the city's civic pride with the universal language of art—an enduring dialogue between faith, beauty, and ambition that still moves visitors centuries later.

Things to See and Do in the Colleoni Chapel

The chapel’s façade alone is worth the visit. Its geometric design in red, white, and black marble, combined with the rose window and medallions of Julius Caesar and Trajan, speaks of both divine and worldly power. Below the façade, bas-reliefs illustrate scenes from the Bible and the labors of Hercules, blending Christian devotion with classical mythology. The pilasters topped with statues of the Virtues frame the entrance with elegance, leading to a richly adorned interior.

Inside, the tomb of Bartolomeo Colleoni dominates the space. Flanked by lions and framed by a triumphal arch, it features reliefs of Christ’s life and an equestrian statue of Colleoni in gilded wood—completed by Nuremberg craftsmen in 1501. On the left wall lies the tomb of Medea Colleoni, sculpted by Amadeo himself, depicting the Deposition in high relief. Visitors will also find Giambattista Tiepolo’s luminous frescoes adorning the dome, painted in 1732–1733, depicting episodes from the lives of the chapel’s three patron saints. The result is an awe-inspiring harmony of sculpture, painting, and architecture, offering a complete expression of Renaissance artistry.

How to Get There

The Colleoni Chapel stands beside the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Piazza Duomo, at the heart of Bergamo Alta. Bergamo's train station, located in the lower city, offers excellent connections to Milan, Lecco, and Brescia. To reach Bergamo Alta (the upper city) from the train station, take ATB bus line 1. This bus departs from the station every ten minutes and takes you to the lower funicular station. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

From the upper funicular station at Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, it’s a short, scenic walk uphill to Piazza Duomo. If you’re arriving by car, nearby parking options include Piazza della Cittadella and Parcheggio Mercato del Fieno. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Colleoni Chapel

  • Best time to visit the Colleoni Chapel: Late morning or late afternoon when sunlight enhances the marble façade.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free entry, though donations are appreciated.
  • Opening hours: Typically 9:00–12:30 and 14:00–17:30; closed Mondays.
  • Official website: www.visitbergamo.net
  • How long to spend: Around 30–45 minutes to appreciate both the exterior and interior details.
  • Accessibility: Steps at the entrance; limited accessibility for wheelchairs.
  • Facilities: Nearby restrooms and cafés in Piazza Vecchia.
  • Photography tip: Exterior photography is stunning in the morning; interior photos are often restricted.
  • Guided tours: Offered through the Bergamo History Museum or local guides of the upper city.
  • Nearby food options: Try Da Mimmo or Caffè del Tasso, both within a short walk.

Is the Colleoni Chapel Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Colleoni Chapel is one of Bergamo's most breathtaking landmarks—a fusion of art, architecture, and personal history that defines the city's Renaissance splendor. Its proximity to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and Piazza Vecchia makes it a natural stop and a highlight of any walking tour of Bergamo. Few places capture the spirit of the Italian Renaissance so vividly in such a compact, intimate space.

FAQs for Visiting the Colleoni Chapel

Can you visit the chapel independently?
Yes, visitors can explore freely during opening hours.

Is photography allowed inside?
Photography inside is often restricted; check signage before taking pictures.

Is the chapel still used for services?
It is primarily a monument, though occasionally used for special religious events.

Who designed the chapel?
Giovanni Antonio Amadeo, a master of Lombard Renaissance architecture.

Is the chapel connected to Santa Maria Maggiore?
Yes, it’s physically attached to the basilica, though it functions as a separate structure.

Nearby Attractions to the Colleoni Chapel

The Cappella Colleoni appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bergamo!

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Visiting Cappella Colleoni

Hours:

9am-12.30pm & 2-6.30pm Mar-Oct, 9am-12.30pm & 2-4.30pm Tue-Sun Nov-Feb

Address: Cappella Colleoni, Piazza Duomo, Bergamo, Province of Bergamo, Italy
Bergamo: 0 km

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