Basilica of St. Gervasius and St. Protasius, Rapallo, Italy

The Archipresbyteral-Collegiate Basilica of Saints Gervasio and Protasio has a rich history dating back to the early 12th century. The dedication of the church to Saints Gervasio and Protasio is traditionally believed to have occurred on 11 October 1118, a date confirmed by some historical records and papal sources. Pope Gelasius II is said to have officiated the dedication while on his way to France. However, there is some scholarly debate about the exact date, as certain historical records, particularly a marble plaque commemorating the event, present discrepancies. These Roman characters were later interpreted in various ways, and several studies by scholars from the University of Genoa and the Superintendence of Artistic and Cultural Heritage of Liguria suggested that the date of the basilica’s consecration may have been adapted to align with the consecration of San Lorenzo Cathedral in Genoa, which took place on 10 October 1118 by the same pope.

The presence of a Chapter of Canons at the basilica is recorded as early as 1143, indicating the church’s importance as a center of religious life. Over the centuries, the basilica has undergone various changes due to attacks, looting, and natural disasters, particularly due to its strategic location in the Rapallo seaside village. In its early years, the basilica’s jurisdiction extended over 17 churches, from Portofino to San Pietro di Rovereto (Zoagli) and through the middle Fontanabuona valley (Cicagna), underscoring its significance in the region’s spiritual and social life. The basilica also served as a location for important local gatherings where decisions were made regarding the political, religious, and social life of the Rapallo community.

Restoration and Alterations

In 1604, a papal bull issued by Cardinal Orazio Spinola, the Archbishop of Genoa, highlighted the urgent need for repairs to the basilica, as it had fallen into a state of disrepair. Restoration efforts began in 1606 with the relocation of the choir to the entrance and the repositioning of the main altar. After 12 years of work, the restoration was completed on 2 June 1628, with the structure maintaining its four-nave layout. Subsequent alterations continued throughout the years. In 1679, the basilica underwent modifications to build a new apse, erasing much of the Gothic-Romanesque architectural style in favor of a more modern 18th-century appearance. In 1721, the choir was extended with the addition of spiral columns with walnut capitals. A wooden crucifix was donated in 1725 and later transferred to the nearby San Quirico d’Assereto church.

Flooding and Reconstruction

The basilica suffered significant damage on 14 October 1794 when the Boate torrent flooded the church, devastating its religious furnishings. Further floods occurred during the 19th and 20th centuries, causing more damage. Despite these setbacks, restoration continued, with significant works carried out in the second half of the 19th century. Between 1852 and 1856, architect Gio Batta Olivieri undertook a renovation of the basilica, which included the design of a new neoclassical façade. A more substantial reconstruction project began in the early 20th century under the direction of the new archpriest, Monsignor Cesare Boccoleri, who would later become the bishop of Terni and then Modena. Architect Gaetano Moretti was tasked with the unification of the ancient structure with modern elements. The project culminated in the construction of a monumental dome, which was completed in 1920, despite the challenges posed by World War I. The new basilica was solemnly consecrated on 1 July 1920.

Damage During World War II

During the Second World War, the basilica, like many other buildings in Rapallo, was heavily affected by an Allied air raid on 28 July 1944. The raid caused casualties inside the church and led to the collapse of the right nave. As a result, the basilica was closed to religious worship for nearly three years until it was reopened on 29 March 1947 after extensive restoration work.

Recent Restorations

In the years following World War II, further restoration efforts took place. Notably, the side square of the basilica was pedestrianized and reconstructed in 2006, creating a new churchyard. In 2009, the neoclassical façade underwent a renewed decoration to preserve its grandeur. These modern improvements have ensured that the basilica remains an important and well-maintained religious and historical landmark in the Rapallo area.