Chiesa di San Costanzo (Church of San Costanzo), Perugia

The Church of San Costanzo in Perugia stands as a testament to the city's rich religious and architectural history. Dedicated to one of Perugia's co-patrons and its first bishop, Saint Costanzo, this parish church holds significant historical and spiritual value. In 2008, it was elevated to the status of a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI, marking its importance within the Umbrian capital.

Just outside San Costanzo Gate, at the end of Borgo XX Giugno, stands the church built on the burial site of San Costanzo, Perugia's first bishop, martyred under Marcus Aurelius. Initially interred near Porta San Pietro in 178 CE, the site evolved from a mausoleum into a place of worship, possibly named San Martino in Ajole.

The church saw major changes, first expanded in 1205 by Presbyter Alessio under Pope Innocent III. In 1889, architect Guglielmo Calderini redesigned it in a neo-Romanesque style using pink Assisi limestone, preserving the 12th-century apse and east wall while adding a bell tower and portico. The travertine-columned portico, with its detailed capitals, hosted both sacred activities and local markets.

The façade showcases a blend of medieval and 19th-century artistry. The original portal, adorned with Romanesque sculptures of Christ and the Evangelist symbols, is complemented by 19th-century terracotta decorations by Francesco Biscarini and Raffaele Angeletti. These include a rose window with high-relief Evangelist symbols and a tympanum featuring Christ enthroned.

The church's single nave leads to a 12th-century apse with frescoes by Ludovico Caselli and Matteo Tassi, featuring Christ enthroned, angels, and floral motifs. Painted wooden trusses with stars and crosses enhance the celestial feel. The apse contains a neo-Gothic polyptych of Saint Costanzo and other saints, while neo-Gothic triptychs by Caselli adorn the side walls. Modern pink tiles, added in a 2008 restoration, blend history with modernity.

The Church of San Costanzo remains a cornerstone of Perugia's religious heritage, blending layers of historical significance with architectural and artistic beauty.