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Santa Maria della Piazza

church, Ancona, Italy

Quick Summary

Santa Maria della Piazza is an 11th- to 12th-century church located in Ancona, Italy. It is notable for its ornate facade, which dates back to 1210, and the remains of 5th- and 7th-century mosaics found within. The church is situated on the promontory that gives Ancona its name, derived from the Greek word for "elbow". Ancona itself has a rich history, founded by Syracusan colonists around 390 BCE and later favored by Emperor Trajan, who expanded its harbor. The city has experienced periods of decline and recovery, serving as a significant port and a semi-independent republic before becoming part of Italy in 1860.1

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