The focus of our walkabout yesterday was the magnificent striped Duomo on the ridge above the city center.
The buildings are constructed of alternating white and black rock.
On the porch in front of the doors are the first of the phenomenon collection of inlaid marbles on the floors depicting historical, literary, and Biblical figures. They have been walked on for centuries, but are now fenced off, just for looking.
Enormous bronze doors
The nave, looking toward the chancel
Floor marbles, one of many
Baptismal fountain of carved rock
Another floor marble with friendly beasts
A side wall
The chancel
Note the large bronze angels on the side pillars. Each holds a candle lamp.
The base of a pillar
The Nativity set is still up. Three-quarter size figures. (And very odd animals)
The pulpit - absolutely gorgeous. Steps up to the left, pulpit on backs of lions. Carved frieze.
And the Bible for the priest to read is resting on the eagle, representing the Gospel of the Apostle John: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was God.”
One set of organ pipes. There were two other sets in the chancel.
A floor mosaic of the Slaughter of the Innocents. Herod to the far left.
And today, Sunday, we went to observe a service in Italian. Lots of High Church ritual, but no organ. A guitarist played for a small group of singers. Females read and assisted with the distribution of the Sacrament. Tiny children had parts in bringing things to the altar and collecting the offerings. An old priest conducted the liturgy and consecration of the elements. The congregation was fairly good sized.
To be continued….
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