CULTURE

Asti's secret crypt: hidden treasure of Roman architecture

The secret crypt of Asti is a basilica-shaped building divided into three small naves with cross vaults. The central core features columns and capitals, probably recovered from earlier Roman buildings. Outside this core, the rest of the columns were specially made for the crypt in sandstone.

In the adjoining rooms, there are remains of Roman paving, a few residential settlements and tombs dating back to the 7th century/ 10th century.

Further outside, there is still the foundation wall of the early mediaeval church of St Anastasius (7th century), remains of the later Romanesque church (11th century) and part of the perimeter wall of the 17th-century church.

photo by Riccardo Mantica
An ancient crypt waiting to be discovered
The crypt of Sant'Anastasio in Asti (Italy) is a basilica-shaped building divided into three small naves with cross vaults. The central core features columns and capitals, probably recovered from earlier Roman buildings.
photo by Riccardo Mantica
Features
The initial three bays are the oldest part (11th century) characterised by different mullions, uneven in terms of materials and construction characteristics, which make extensive use of salvaged elements from the Roman and early medieval period.
photo by Riccardo Mantica
Externally
Outside this core, the rest of the columns were specially made for the crypt in sandstone.
photo by Riccardo Mantica
Foundation wall
Further outside, there is still the foundation wall of the early medieval church of St Anastasius (7th century), remains of the later Romanesque church (11th century) and part of the perimeter wall of the 17th-century church.
photo by Riccardo Mantica
Architectural findings
Both Roman and early mediaeval architectural finds, remnants of the liturgical and sculptural furnishings of the Longobard church, are of considerable interest.
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