Attraction Guide: Basilica of San Petronio, Bologna, Italy

Basilica of San Petronio Guide

Basilica of San Petronio: Bologna's Unfinished Masterpiece Guide

Discover the Basilica of San Petronio, a colossal church that dominates Piazza Maggiore in Bologna. This imposing structure, dedicated to the city's patron saint, is a testament to Bologna's ambition and its complex history. While its facade remains famously unfinished, the basilica's interior is a treasure trove of art, history, and architectural marvels. Prepare to be awestruck by its sheer scale and the stories it holds within its walls. The Basilica of San Petronio's construction began in 1390 with the ambitious goal of creating a church larger than St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. However, the project was plagued by financial difficulties and political interference, most notably from the Papal States, who feared Bologna's growing power. The basilica was never completed according to its original grand design, leaving its facade with a stark contrast between the finished lower portion and the unfinished upper section. Despite its incomplete state, the basilica stands as a symbol of Bologna's civic pride and its rich artistic heritage. Visitors to the Basilica of San Petronio can explore its vast interior, admiring the Gothic architecture, the numerous chapels adorned with frescoes and sculptures, and the sundial designed by astronomer Gian Domenico Cassini in the 17th century. This sundial, one of the largest in the world, was used to accurately calculate the length of the solar year. You can also visit the Museo di San Petronio, which houses artifacts and documents related to the basilica's history. While the basilica itself doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, Bologna is renowned as the culinary capital of Italy. Be sure to sample local specialties like tagliatelle al ragù (Bolognese sauce), tortellini in brodo (tortellini in broth), and mortadella.