Chiesa di San Bernardino

The Chiesa di San Bernardino, located at the heart of the complex, is a site of profound historical and artistic significance. Once part of a Franciscan convent, the church has long been a landmark of both spiritual devotion and architectural beauty.

Its renowned 15th-century fresco cycle, The History of the Life and Passion of Christ, painted by Giovanni Martino Spanzotti between 1485 and 1490, stands as a masterwork of Renaissance art, capturing the divine narrative with both artistic depth and historical richness. The frescoes, alongside the church’s architectural features, make this site a unique testament to the period’s artistic achievements.

While the surrounding area once bustled with activities such as tennis courts and bocce fields during its time as part of the Olivetti complex, the church today offers a tranquil and contemplative space.

FAI is dedicated to preserving and enhancing this legacy, ensuring that the space continues to serve the community as a versatile and welcoming venue for public and private events.

In addition to its artistic and historical importance, the Chiesa di San Bernardino continues to be a cornerstone of Ivrea’s cultural and industrial heritage. Through its preservation and continued use for events, it remains an enduring symbol of Ivrea’s rich history, as well as a source of inspiration for those who visit, study, and celebrate its exceptional art and architecture.