Almost the largest Gothic basilica in Italy
Founded in 1390, the basilica was intended to be larger than St. Peter's Basilica in Rome itself! Bologna wanted to show its power and independence - but the plan ran into opposition from the papal court, which restricted construction. The result is a monumental but never finished building - especially its facade, which still looks strange today: the lower part is decorated with marble, the upper part is bare brick.
Yet the basilica is breathtaking:
- 132 metres long, the nave 45 metres high - San Petronio is one of the largest churches in Europe
- Gothic architecture combined with Renaissance elements
- 22 chapels, each with its own decoration and story
What will you find inside? Frescoes, organs and a mysterious calendar
The interior of the basilica is spacious, majestic and full of artistic treasures. You'll find frescoes by Giovanni da Modena - especially the famous Last Judgement scene, which includes Mohammed in Hell (a controversial and still debated decoration).
You can also see one of the oldest organs in Europe, still in use, dating from the 15th century.
Last but not least, there is the so-called Meridian Line, a unique astronomical instrument in the floor of the basilica, created in 1655 by Giandomenico Cassini. Thanks to a hole in the roof, a ray of sunlight hits the line and allows you to measure time and track the seasons with incredible precision.
San Petronio and Bologna
The basilica is dedicated to Saint Petronio, the patron saint of the city. His relics are preserved in the crypt, and important masses and festivities are held here every year.
The Basilica di San Petronio in Bologna is not just a monument - it is a lively centre of religious and cultural life, where concerts, exhibitions and meetings are held.
Practical information
Address: free, but there is a nominal fee for entry to some chapels and for photography
Transport: easily accessible on foot from Bologna Centrale station
Basilica di San Petronio is a unique place that will show you Bologna in a different way than just a university town with good food. It's a story of human ambition, faith, art and science - all under one roof that is still waiting to be completed.
If you're looking for something truly impressive yet a little bit "different" in Italy, San Petronio will not disappoint.
