Minor Basilica of San Nicolò, Lecco
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The Basilica of Saint Nicholas is the main place of Catholic worship in Lecco. It is situated in an elevated position and stands on the remains of the 14th century AD city walls. It was dedicated to San Nicolò, patron saint of sailors and boatmen. The symbol of the church is the very high bell tower, which, with its 96 m (315 ft) of height, represents one of the highest bell towers in Italy.[1]
Originally a small structure of the 11th century, in the course of the 15th century it was repeatedly expanded. During the seventeenth century it saw a period of great splendor, when it assumed a decidedly Baroque style, both in structure and furnishings. Between 1831 and 1862, the architect Giuseppe Bovara altered the facade and decoration to the Neoclassical tastes. The imposing, neo-gothic bell-tower was added in 1902–1904, designed by Giovanni Ceruti. The bell tower was erected at the site of one of the turrets in the medieval walls of the city, razed during the 19th century. The double staircase entrance was added in 1928.[1]
The church was elevated to Basilica status in 1942.[1]