NAVE

The nave of Santa Maria in Montesanto is elliptical, in contrast to that of the “twin” which is circular.

The nave - click to enlarge picture

On the left wall, as on the right wall of the ellipse there are three chapels.

Upon entering the nave is a slab with the phrase “Laudent in portis opera eius”. This phrase is taken from the Book of Proverbs in the Jewish and Christian Bible and means “his works are the praise at the gates of the city”. We are actually on the outskirts of the city and the homage to Mary is obvious, but this is the church of artists, so the phrase seems a metaphor, and then we could read it in this way: “their works are to be commended at the gates of the city”.

	The plaque - click to enlarge picture

Advancing down the nave toward the presbytery one can capture the harmony of the interior.

Harmonious proportions, harmony of colors.
The design of the floor by Rainaldi is projected in the mouldings of the cupola.

In front of the presbytery a large plaque indicates access to the below room where they are buried the canons.

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