See one of the largest churches in the world and learn the story behind its magnificent yet unfinished marble façade.
The Basilica of San Petronio is among the most important churches in Bologna and one of the city’s top attractions. Despite never being fully completed, the church is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. It is dedicated to Bologna’s patron saint, San Petronio.
Construction of the basilica began in the late 14th century, but the ambitious project, which aimed to outdo the scale of St. Peter’s in Rome, was stalled many times. It remains unfinished to this day.
From the street, you’ll notice that the bottom section of the façade is covered in marble, while the unfinished top section is made of exposed brick. Look closely at the marble façade to see the beautiful carvings depicting biblical stories from the Old and New testaments.
Walk down Via dell'Archiginnasio and look for the semi-constructed apses, which protrude clumsily. Admire the church’s stunning 15th-century central portal designed by Jacopo della Quercia, an important artist in Italian Renaissance sculpture.
Inside, don’t miss the 222-foot (67.7-meter) brass sundial stretching down the eastern aisle in the form of a meridian line. This sundial is a rare example of a scientific instrument in a religious building. Designed by Gian Cassini and Domenico Guglielmi in 1656, the sundial is extremely precise and has helped identify several inaccuracies in the Julian calendar.
Check out the gorgeous frescos decorating the chapels. Be sure to see the 15th-century cross found at the main altar, as well as the basilica’s organ, which is one of the world’s oldest organs still in use.
Save some time for the Chapel of San Petronio, which contains the head of San Petronio, as well as the tomb of Napoleon’s sister. Take a look at the Gothic marble railing and the brilliant colors in the windows in the Kings Magi's Chapel, one of the best preserved of the basilica’s 22 chapels.
The Basilica of San Petronio is located in the city’s main square, Piazza Maggiore. It’s open daily, except for an hour in the afternoon, and admission is free. Check ahead of your visit to find out when mass is held.
