Santa Maria della Vita (Church of Holy Mary of Life), Bologna (must see)

When Franciscan monk Raniero Fasani arrived in Bologna in 1260, he established a church and hospital to look after the sick. The original church was destroyed in 1686.

Construction on the ornate Baroque-style church that stands today began in 1687 and was completed in the 1700s. The exterior facade is simple with pilasters. The interior has ornate baroque decorations with numerous paintings. The side chapels are lavishly decorated.

One of the most remarkable attractions in the Church of Holy Mary of Life is the Lamentation of Christ. Artist Niccolò dell'Arca created this series of terracotta statues in the 15th century. The masterpiece shows mourners gathered around the body of Christ.

The adjacent oratory was completed in 1617 and hosts several artworks. Visitors will find various statues dating to the 16th century. The Madonna with Child and Saints was completed by artist Nosadella in 1550. The Transit of the Madonna features 14 terracotta statues. This artwork was created by artist Alfonso Lombardi in 1522.

Statues of St. Proculus and St. Petronius by Aseeandro Algardi adorn niches in the walls. Visitors will also find St. Francis and St. Domenic statues by Giulio Cesare Conventi.

The Church of Holy Mary of Life is often overlooked, but its fabulous interior and important artworks are worth seeing.