Must-Visit Cathedrals in Italy: Top 10 Stunning Churches

Saint Peter’s Basilica – Vatican City (Rome)

Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

Phone: +39 06 6982

Visit website

It is essential to note that St. Peter’s Basilica is situated not in Italy but within Vatican City, which is entirely surrounded by Rome. This magnificent structure serves as the heart of Catholicism and is the Pope’s official residence. Consequently, it is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Rome.

Florence Duomo – Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Phone: +39 055 230 2885

Visit website

The Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore, commonly known as il duomo, stands as a prominent symbol of Florence. Brunelleschi’s Dome is an architectural marvel, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from its summit. The intricate exterior features striking pink, white, and green marble and 44 stunning stained glass windows, making it a significant landmark.

Milan Cathedral – Duomo di Milano

Address: P.za del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI, Italy

Phone: +39 02 7202 3375

Visit website

Milan Cathedral, completed over 600 years, is renowned for being Italy’s largest Gothic cathedral. A visit to the rooftop offers exceptional city views while showcasing intricate spires and countless statues. Notably, the stunning stained glass windows and historical sarcophagi heighten its allure. While entrance to the cathedral is free, a fee is required to access the rooftop and surrounding archaeological areas.

Venice – Basilica San Marco

Address: Piazza S. Marco, 2, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Phone: +39 02 2900 2598

Visit website

Basilica San Marco in Venice is a remarkable synthesis of Byzantine and Western architectural styles. The cathedral’s splendid mosaic domes are iconic, attracting visitors from around the world. Decorative Byzantine mosaics and the artwork of renowned Venetian artists further embellish its interior. Although entrance is generally free, certain sections of the complex may incur additional costs.

Siena Cathedral – Duomo di Siena

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 8, 53100 Siena SI, Italy

Phone: +39 0577 283048

Visit website

Siena’s stunning 13th-century duomo is one of Italy’s finest Gothic cathedrals. The captivating black and white facade features elaborate carvings and remarkable artworks, including frescoes and exquisite floor mosaics crafted by renowned artists like Michelangelo and Donatello. The intricate marble floor mosaics, dating back to the 14th-16th centuries, are essential viewing. Admission fees apply, with additional costs for access to certain sections, like the crypt and baptistery.

Orvieto Cathedral

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 26, 05018 Orvieto TR, Italy

Phone: +39 0763 341167

Visit website

Orvieto’s cathedral is renowned for its striking mosaic-covered facade and stands as a notable example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture. Visitors can marvel at the bronze doors and beautifully decorated chapels. The cathedral’s stunning location on a tufa ridge enhances its appeal, making it a must-visit landmark.

Modena

Address: Corso Duomo, 41121 Modena MO, Italy

Phone: +39 059 216078

Visit website

The 12th-century duomo of Modena is a prime example of Romanesque architecture and a site of significant historical importance, being the final resting place of renowned tenor Luciano Pavarotti. Its facade features intricate carvings, while inside, visitors can appreciate beautiful mosaics and multiple artistic treasures, including medieval nativity scenes. This cathedral, alongside the bell tower and Piazza Grande, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pisa

While Pisa is commonly associated with the iconic leaning tower, its Campo dei Miracoli, or Field of Miracles, boasts an impressive array of Romanesque monuments, forming a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to 1063, the cathedral features a stunning facade crafted in the 12th century, with notable artworks including a remarkable marble pulpit.

Assisi – Saint Francis Basilica

Address: Piazza Inferiore di S. Francesco, 2, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Phone: +39 075 819001

Visit website

The town of Assisi is renowned for the Basilica di San Francesco, dedicated to Italy’s patron saint. This remarkable basilica, built into a hillside, consists of two richly decorated churches filled with medieval frescoes. Following restoration after a damaging earthquake, Saint Francis Basilica continues to be a significant pilgrimage destination and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Parma Cathedral – Duomo di Parma

Address: Piazza Duomo, 7, 43121 Parma PR, Italy

Phone: +39 0521 235886

Visit website

Parma’s cathedral, an exceptional example of Romanesque architecture, showcases beautifully restored ceiling frescoes. The entrance features impressive lion sculptures, while the bell tower is crowned with a stunning gilded angel. Its unique octagonal dome sets it apart from other churches of the same period.