Shrines of Italy: Church of Saint Mark

The Cathedral of Saint Mark is one of the most popular destinations in all of Pordenone, Italy. And that’s no surprise considering the church is located in the heart of a busy downtown shopping district. While the original structure dates back to early 1200’s most of the church’s current embellishments were made during the Renaissance Period.

The painstaking detail that went into the design of St. Mark is impressive to say the least, as nearly every wall contains a unique and richly-decorated side altar, most of which rely on the use of paintings and frescoes as opposed to statues. One feature common to every side alter in this church however, is the incorporation of marble columns which bear a very Romanesque appearance.

This theme is carried throughout the entire building, with its high-vaulted dome ceiling above the main altar, and with its rounded support columns, each containing a partially restored 16th century fresco.

The restoration process was begun in 1976 after of the artwork was damaged by a large earthquake. The fruits of this restoration are most evident in the adjacent side chapel dedicated to the Blessed Sacrament, as almost every square inch of the room in covered by magnificent paintings depicting events from the life of Christ. One can only imagine the amount of labor and love put toward the design of this room, which like many side chapels of the Renaissance era, served more of an artistic than functional purpose.

On the off chance that you ever forget where to find St. Mark, just look for the massive bell tower adjacent to the main church, and listen for the six bells that ring every hour on the hour even to this day. And if that doesn’t work, just follow the crowd of parishioners attending one of the many Masses offered each week.

Once you get there, the church of St. Mark promises to be an experience you’ll never forget.