Crema

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24 November 2014 (Mon)


Our stay at Milan in 2014 was not blessed with sunshine. The visit to Crema was on one out of six days of sunshine during my half month's stay.  We were in Milan on the rest days with sunshine.  No harm.  Let's talk about Crema.  It is a historic town in Lombardy, about 40 kilometers from Milan. Dating back it was primarily an agricultural town with cattle raising.  Today it produces cheese, iron products, textile, etc.  And the prosperity finances the renovation of the town.  For example, the cathedral was closed for some years.  Now, it appears fresh and awesome in the town centre.


It was cold in the morning.  Our first stop was Santa Maria della Croce, 15-20 minutes by walking.  The church was build in Lombardy Renaissance style.  One piece of arts is Caterina meets Our Lady.  She was from a wealthy family.  Her husband axed her hand and attempted to kill her.  She prayed to Madonna for help.  She could be transported to the town and at the end died.  Her husband never appeared again.


The church is intricately decorated with frescoes, reliefs and sculptures.  Very rich!  One won't see a corner with no decoration or art pieces.  The dome is nicely painted and so as the walls.

 

There was more life on the way back to the centre.  Elderly bikers were on the pavements.  Autumn colours shone under the sun.  Red, yellow dotted the space.  The vegetation in the park was dyed with beautiful autumn hues.  Fantastic and absolutely beautiful!

 
 

Crema retains its medieval and Renaissance charm since long.  Its economic power allows it to restore historic buildings.  But some buildings are decay and need restoration.  Perhaps, it's a matter of priority.  The damaged and restored buildings, cobbled streets, palazzos all attribute to its glamour, not an exaggerated manner but subtle beauty and easy going.


At the heart of the town stands the restored Lombardy Gothic styled cathedral.  It is immense and imposing. The brick facade gives people a warm welcome, like a humble person extending its hand to befriend you.  Sculptures of Madonna and Child, Saints Pantaleon and Joint the Baptist over a frieze welcome you.  But I wonder why nearby are some provocative sculptures.


The interior of the cathedral is huge and aptly decorated with sculptures, paintings and frescoes. Important painters include Guido Reni, Denys Calvaert, Carracci and Vincenzo Civerchio.

 
 
 
 

Close to the Cathedral is the Praetorian Palace attached to the 14th century tower, The arc of Torrazzo.  Other buildings include Teatro San Domenico, La chiesa della Trinità and a handful of palazzos.  Among all, I like particularly a sweet statue at Palazzo Bondenti.

 
 
 
 




Location: 26013 Crema CR, Italy

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