Murals of the Basilica

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"Annunciation by Gabriel"

The narrative source for "The Annunciation," one of the most frequent subjects of Christian art, is found in the Gospel of Luke (1:26-38). The angel Gabriel tells Mary that she is to be the mother of the Savior. Mary is here shown on a porch, her hands raised in surprise or wonderment - surprise at the apparition or wonderment at the message.

Gabriel, holding a staff, is kneeling while delivering his message. The Holy Spirit appears amidst seven rays of light, all emanating from God. This fresco is relatively simple in its portrayal of the event, avoiding many of the details popular in earlier works. The architecture of the portico serves to frame the important figure of the Blessed Virgin and divides the panel neatly into two sections.

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