Tempio Civico di San Sebastiano

Tempio Civico di San Sebastiano

The Civic Temple of San Sebastiano is a circular Baroque church built in 1576 as a vow by the city of Milan for deliverance from the plague of 1576. Designed by architect Pellegrino Tibaldi, this unique building is distinguished by its circular plan and imposing dome. The church represents an important example of votive architecture and commemorates the patron saint against plagues.

Anecdotes:

  1. The church was built in just two years thanks to donations from Milanese citizens, demonstrating the unity of the city in the face of the plague tragedy.

  2. During the Napoleonic period, the temple was temporarily converted into a military depot, but was returned to worship thanks to citizens' protests.

  3. The dome lantern was designed to allow light to enter, creating a symbolic effect: the sun's rays penetrating represent divine grace descending on the city.