Pistoia - Sant'Andrea

Sant'Andrea, believed to have been Pistoia´s ancient cathedral, is thought to date back to the period of Lombard domination. The present day church dates to the mid 12th century. It is located on the Via Francigena, one of the major pilgrim-routes to Rome.

The facade, with bichrome marble decorations, is divided by five arches with columns and rhomboid motifs. The extensive carvings over the central door were executed in the mid-12th century by Pisan brothers Gruamonte and Adeodatus. The lintel depicts the Magi, a common icon, along pilgrim roads.

The four side archivolts, glued together here, are less spectacular. Here is a great bunch of creatures of all kinds and animals, watched by herdsmen.