San Nazaro Maggiore Basilica, Milan - Centre

4th century basilica, the oldest using a Latin cross plan in the west

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This basilica was originally built by St Ambrose, in the 4th century, and contains the remains of the Apostles, John, Andrew and Thomas, as well as those of San Nazaro. Some remains of frescoes can still be seen despite many changes to its original structure over the years.

This church was built by Saint Ambrose, bishop of Milan, in 382 on the road connecting Milan and Rome to guard the Apostles' relics. The central apse containing the relics of San Nazaro was erected in 395.

It was extensively reconstructed in the end of the 11th century, when a vault was added, as well as with successive building works from the 16th to the 19th centuries. The Trivulzio Chapel, which obstructs the Romanesque facade, was added in 1512 by Bramantino