Basilica of San Petronio
Basilica di San Petronio
One of the largest churches in the world, with an unfinished facade and one of the longest meridian sundials in existence inside.
Construction of the Basilica of San Petronio began in 1390. Its original plan would have made it larger than St Peter's Basilica in Rome, but funding restrictions imposed by the Pope forced the design to be scaled back. The upper half of the facade remains bare brick, which gives the church its distinctive unfinished look. Inside, the nave is about 132 metres long, and a 67-metre meridian line set into the floor was designed by the astronomer Cassini in 1655. At noon, sunlight passes through a small hole in the roof and falls on the line, allowing the date to be read. The 15th-century Last Judgment frescoes in the Bolognini Chapel are worth seeing, although there is a separate charge to enter. The church is free to enter, and a small fee is required for a photography permit. Some opening times include access to the roof terrace, where you can see the twin towers up close. Dress appropriately for entry: no tank tops or shorts. Large bags must pass through security.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:30–13:00, 15:00–18:00 (no visits during religious services)
Nearby sights
- Museo Civico Archeologico di Bologna
- Archiginnasio of Bologna
- Santa Maria della Vita
- Quadrilatero
- Piazza Maggiore & Fountain of Neptune
- Biblioteca Salaborsa
- Palazzo d'Accursio
- Bologna Cathedral (San Pietro)