Basilica di San Petronio
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Holy Place,
Religious Experience,
Church / Cathedral
Named for Bologna’s patron saint, the city’s fifth-century bishop, the Basilica di San Petronio is the world’s fifth-largest church and a fabulous example of Gothic grandeur.
Construction began in 1390, but plans to enlarge the basilica were halted in the 1500s when the design threatened to overshadow that of St Peter’s in Rome. Thanks to this creative curtailment, the basilica’s facade detail remains unfinished.
On a tour of the basilica’s interior, admire the frescoed chapels and apse, the rich stained glass and marble. The exterior features detailed carvings of biblical scenes. Look out for the brass sundial embedded in the floor of the eastern aisle.
Latest Reviews
Review by Carlos A, September 2012
Doing what: Private Tour: Bologna Cycling Sightseeing Tour
Excelent
Review by Anthony P, September 2011
Doing what: Private Tour: Classical Bologna Walking Tour
Our guide Paula was very informative. Very cordial. No better way to get to understand a new foreign city.
Review by Barbara O, August 2011
Doing what: Private Tour: Classical Bologna Walking Tour
This tour was wonderful and the guide was fabulous! She shared history, anecdotes and adjusted the tour to show us the food side of Bologna, which was of great interest to us!
Practical Info
The Basilica di San Petronio fronts Bologna’s principal square, Piazza Maggiore, in the heart of the city.
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