BINAGO, Lorenzo

(b. 1554 Milano, d. 1629 Milano)

Italian architect and Barnabite monk, also known as Lorenzo Biffi. He was an important innovator during the transition period between Late Mannerism and Early Baroque in Milan. He is mainly known as the architect of the church of Sant’Alessandro in Zebedia (begun 1601), considered one of the most impressive constructions of Lombard architecture. In 1611, he was called to Brescia to participate in the construction of the New Cathedral.

The architect Francesco Maria Ricchino was his pupil.

Exterior view

The work Sant’Alessandro began in 1601 on the ruins of an old church and following the design by Binago who was inspired by the models of Bramante and Michelangelo for Saint Peter’s in Rome.

Binago’s central structure is formed by a Greek cross inserted in a square on which a dome emerges. The entire form is contrasted with a longitudinal segment carrying the main altar and the apse. The most important feature of the design: the arches of the crossing rest on free-standing columns. This motif had a considerable following in Italy and abroad.

After the death of Binago works were continued by Francesco Maria Ricchini, while the crypt below the choir and the top of the fa�ade was completed only in the eighteenth century.

View the ground plan of Sant’Alessandro in Zebedia, Milan.

Send Postcard Learn More

Interior view

The work Sant’Alessandro began in 1601 on the ruins of an old church and following the design by Binago who was inspired by the models of Bramante and Michelangelo for Saint Peter’s in Rome.

After the death of Binago works were continued by Francesco Maria Ricchini, while the crypt below the choir and the top of the fa�ade was completed only in the eighteenth century.

View the ground plan of Sant’Alessandro in Zebedia, Milan.

Send Postcard Learn More