With a religious history spanning thousands of years, it's no surprise that Italy is home to some of the world's most beautiful churches and cathedrals.
Built by some of the most talented architects in the world and featuring the contributions of leading artists, from sculptures to frescoes and oil paintings, these six architectural masterpieces are must-see destinations. They offer a profound glimpse into Italy's rich religious traditions and culture.
St. Mark's Basilica, Venice
St. Mark's Basilica was constructed in 1071 by Italian and Byzantine artisans. For nearly 1,000 years, this iconic Venetian landmark, located next to the Doge's Palace, has amassed a vast collection of intricate mosaics, ceremonial objects, and sculptural masterpieces. Among its most famous treasures are the four bronze horses brought to Venice during the Fourth Crusade.
Florence Cathedral, Florence
Perhaps the most iconic landmark in Florence is the Duomo, with its red dome—the largest brick vault ever built. Supported by Cosimo de' Medici the Elder, architect Filippo Brunelleschi was tasked with building the dome in 1420 and completed it 16 years later. This architectural marvel, along with its baptistery and magnificent bell tower, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City
With a long list of great architects who contributed to its construction, including Michelangelo and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, it's no surprise that this Italian Renaissance church is a colossal architectural work and one of the most famous churches in the world. Located in Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica hosts many annual papal liturgies and is the burial site of numerous popes dating back to the early Christian era.
Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi, Assisi
A cultural and spiritual destination, the Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi dates back to 1230 and was consecrated as a cathedral in 1288. Among its unmissable features are the chancel and apse, painted by the artist Cimabue, and the famous frescoes by Giotto that tell the story of the church's namesake.
Siena Cathedral, Siena
Dating back to the 13th century, this medieval cathedral was designed in part by Nicola Pisano. One of its most spectacular features is the library, known as Piccolomini, which houses a series of meticulously preserved 16th-century frescoes by Pinturicchio, a renowned Italian Renaissance painter.
Milan Cathedral, Milan
The Duomo di Milano is the largest cathedral in Italy. The cathedral was famously mentioned in Mark Twain's novel, The Innocents Abroad. The structure took nearly 600 years to complete, with construction and decoration spanning centuries, a common architectural tradition for grand projects of that time. Visitors are sure to be captivated by the three altars of Pellegrino Pellegrini, as well as the network of sculptures on the cathedral's spires.
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cấp ngày 30/07/2011. Đăng ký thay đổi lần thứ 15 do Sở Kế hoạch và Đầu tư TP. Hồ Chí Minh ngày 06/06/2022.
