With its elaborately ornamented, statue-topped façade and imposing dome, Brescia’s Duomo Nuovo is hard to miss. Visit the huge Catholic church to survey the many architectural influences and to see several notable works of art displayed within.
Work on this cathedral began in 1604 but it was not finished until an astonishing 221 years later in 1825. Because of this, and due to subsequent rebuilding projects over the centuries, the cathedral does not have one single coherent architectural style. Note how even the façade bears elements from different eras with a Baroque design on the lower part and classical elements visible on the upper sections.
Take some time to admire the details visible on the façade. The white marble exterior features various statues and busts of religious figures as well as the city’s coat of arms. Gaze up at the cathedral’s imposing dome, which reaches a height of 262 feet (80 meters).
Venture inside the Greek cross-shaped interior to survey a range of paintings. Works from artists including Renaissance painter Il Moretto da Brescia and Palma il Giovane can be seen hung inside. The cathedral also contains some exquisite sculptures. Look a relief depicting St. Apollonius attributed to Matteo Olivieri and a 20th-century statue of Pope Paul VI.
The name Duomo Nuovo means new cathedral, but considering that building began in the 17th century, it’s fair to say this construction is no longer new. It is, however, still newer than Brescia’s 11th-century Duomo Vecchio,aka the old cathedral. Consider pairing a trip to the Duomo Nuovo with a visit to the Duomo Vecchio. As both are located on Piazza Paolo VI, it is easy to get between them.
Find the Duomo Nuovo on the east side of Piazza Paolo VI in central Brescia. Take the Metro to Vittoria and make the 3-minute walk from there. The cathedral is open daily from early morning to evening, with daily closures around lunchtime. Entrance to the cathedral is free.
