Basilica di Sant’Alessandro in Colonna (Basilica of Saint Alexander in Column), Bergamo

The Basilica of Saint Alexander in Column holds great historical and religious importance as it is believed to be the site where Saint Alexander was martyred according to tradition. The origins of the building can be traced back to the early centuries of Christianity, closely connected to the martyrdom of Saint Alexander, a prominent figure from Bergamo. The first known record mentioning the presence of this church dates back to 1133.

Throughout its history, the basilica has undergone several transformations and reconstructions. After a collapse of the original structure, it was rebuilt starting from 1447, taking on a new appearance. In the early eighteenth century, renovations were carried out according to a design by Marco Alessandri. These renovations followed the principles of sacred architecture prevalent during the counter-reformation. While the reconstruction resulted in an artistically homogeneous structure, it led to the loss of certain valuable parts, such as the chapel of the Most Holy Body of Christ. Designed by Pietro Isabello in 1511, only the stone pillars from this chapel remain today, incorporated into the subsequent construction.

Adjacent to the basilica, in the churchyard, stands the renowned "column of Crotacio." This column is traditionally associated with the martyrdom of Saint Alexander, from which the basilica derives its name. It was reassembled in 1618 using fragments from ancient Roman structures. The column was likely an ancient funerary monument dedicated to a certain Crotacio, possibly adorned with a pagan deity.

The completion of the basilica's bell tower occurred much later, in 1905, according to a design by Giuseppe Bovara and Virginio Muzio. The tower can be ascended via 126 steps, leading to the top where the statue of the Madonna del Patrocinio is situated.