Description
The monumental complex of San Pietro in Consavia is one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in Asti. From the twelfth century until 1798, it belonged to the military-religious Order of the Knights of St John of Jerusalem. The complex comprises the circular church, the adjoining square-plan Valperga Chapel, the cloister and part of the former priory.
As you pass through the main entrance at 2 Corso Alfieri, the first building you encounter is the Rotunda of San Pietro. Built during the first quarter of the twelfth century, it is the central and most important part of the complex.
Its original dedication to the Holy Sepulchre, together with its circular plan, makes it one of the most significant examples of churches built in imitation of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. The contrast between brick and sandstone characterises the façade. The main portal features a lunette decorated with interlacing bands, while the lintels above the northern and southern entrances are carved with animal motifs.
Next to the Rotunda stands the Valperga Chapel. It was built between 1446 and 1467 at the request of Prior Giorgio Valperga, whose coat of arms can still be seen on the keystone. The chapel has a square plan, while its exterior is distinguished by the terracotta friezes running around the upper part of the building.
Inside, particularly noteworthy are the fifteen terracotta panels framing the oculus and the four corbels carved in the form of grotesque masks, from which the ribs of the vault rise.
The visit continues into the cloister, which acquired its present appearance during the fifteenth century. Here, visitors can admire circular pillars and groin vaults displaying exceptionally fine masonry.
Finally, on the southern side of the complex, some rooms belonging to a former hospital have survived. Once used to provide hospitality to pilgrims and travellers, they are now privately owned.