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In every city, town and village in Italy, big or small, there is a church for which the country is famous. From magnificent cathedrals to small churches, it seems as if every corner of the beautiful country has a church that has been around for centuries. Although it is difficult to find out the exact Number of churches in ItalyOne should definitely not miss some famous people.
The most beautiful churches in Italy
Those who are planning to visit Italy soon should visit in greater numbers Church in Italy As far as possible, highest priority. It’s a great way to learn about the country’s history and get a closer look at the impressive craftsmanship that keeps these cathedrals standing tall today.
1. Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi
A two-tier architectural masterpiece, the Basilica of St. Francis was consecrated in 1253 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is one of the most Italy’s famous churches It is known for its beauty and the attraction of many Christian pilgrimages in the country. This cathedral consists of two churches – an upper basilica in the Gothic style, and a lower basilica in the Romanesque style. They are adorned with medieval frescoes that were painted by artists such as Pietro Lorenzetti, Giotto and Cimabue.
Fun facts: Don’t miss discovering the High Altar, surrounded by delicate columns, and topped with a marble slab that was brought from Constantinople
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2. Basilica of St. Anthony in Padua
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This majestic, eight-domed basilica was built in 1310 and is one of the most beautiful churches in Italy. The Basilica of St. Anthony combines elements of the Gothic, Romanesque and Byzantine styles. While the exterior is spectacular, the interior is also awe-inspiring. The floors are covered in checkerboard marble, while impressive carvings by Renaissance sculptors such as Tullio Lombardo and Jacopo Sansovino cover the walls.
Fun facts: See Donatello’s seven bronze sculptures on the main altar depicting the Miracles of St. Anthony and the huge central crucifix.
3. Cathedral of St. Agatha in Catania
Although eruptions and earthquakes of nearby Mount Etna have destroyed the Cathedral of St. Agatha several times, it has always been rebuilt and remains one of the grandest churches in Italy as well as Sicily. In fact, it is certainly one of the most beautiful Italian Catholic churches, with a three-tiered Sicilian Baroque façade made of Carrara marble. Corinthian columns and a belfry from 1387 adorn the façade. The interior has vaulted ceilings, exquisite wood carvings depicting the life of St. Agatha, and 17th-century frescoes of saints. If you are in Sicily, be sure to visit Catania to see St. Agatha’s Cathedral.
Fun facts: The church bell is the third largest in the country after St. Peter’s Basilica and Milan’s Duomo.
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4. St. Andrew’s Cathedral in Amalfi
Image Credit: Jackfrey via Flickr
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations and has much more to offer than charming coastal towns and beaches. Being one of the most famous churches in Italy, St. Andrew’s Cathedral is located at the top of a staircase in the center of Amalfi, and looks gorgeously over the Piazza Duomo. The cathedral has an Arabo-Sicilian façade, medieval doors made of bronze, and an elaborate belfry consisting of a central dome flanked by four turrets. Its rich Baroque interiors feature 18th-century paintings depicting the life and miracles of St. Andrew making it one of the most stunning churches in Italy.
Fun facts: When visiting this church, stop to admire the silver statue of the saint and a stunning cross made entirely of mother-of-pearl.
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5. Duomo of Florence in Florence
Yet one of the most beautiful Italian churches that is a must see is the Duomo of Florence. Capped by a red-tiled dome by Filippo Brunelleschi, it is one of the city’s most iconic sights. Its façade is neo-Gothic with patterns of green, white and pink marble, which complement the design of the 14th-century campanile or bell tower of the cathedral. While many of the artworks from the cathedral have been moved to the nearby Grande Museo del Duomo, it is still definitely one of the top churches in Italy that you should visit.
Fun facts: You will find many famous frescoes inside, including The Last Judgment by Vasari.
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6. Duomo of Sienna in Sienna
Image Credit: Ariane Zweigers via Flickr
One of Italy’s top Gothic cathedrals, the 13th-century Duomo of Sienna has a black-and-white façade decorated with striking sculptures and intricate carvings. Apart from the gorgeous floor mosaics and frescoes, one can also see the creations of artists like Michelangelo, Donatello, Pisano and Pinturicchio making it one of the best churches to see in Italy. The most spectacular features of the Duomo of Sienna are the amazing marble floor mosaics which date from the 14th to 16th centuries. However, keep in mind that these mosaics are only on display for a few months each year, usually around September.
Fun facts: See the spectacular Gate of Heaven Tour, Baptistery and Crypt
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Exploring these churches is a great way to spend a few hours alone each day during your stay. Although Milan Cathedral may be the largest church in Italy, these are some of the best churches in Italy that are worth visiting. Therefore, be sure to visit these best churches for an unforgettable vacation in Italy.
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FAQ about churches in Italy
What are the most famous churches in Italy?
Even though people of different religions live in Italy, there is still a strong Christian influence that cannot be denied. Some of the famous churches located there are Basilica of St. Francis, Basilica of St. Anthony, St. Agatha’s Cathedral, Cathedral of St. Andrew and many others.
What are some Catholic churches in Italy?
Many Catholic churches in Italy are quite popular throughout the world. Some of them are Duomo of Sienna, Basilica of St. Anthony, Basilica of St. Francis, and many more.
What are some of the most beautiful churches in Italy?
Most of the churches in Italy are extremely beautiful, and some of the more famous are the Basilica of St. Anthony, Duomo of Florence, Duomo of Sienna and many more.
What are the most famous historic churches in Italy?
Some churches in Italy hold deep significance in the history of Italy. Some of the historically important churches located in Italy are the Duomo of Florence, Duomo of Sienna, Basilica of St. Francis and many others.
What is the most famous church in Italy containing Donatello’s sculptures?
You will be able to see Donatello’s seven bronze sculptures in the Basilica of St. Anthony’s Church in Padua.
When is the best time to visit Italy?
Italy has great weather all year round. But the best time to go there is between April to June or September to October. You will be able to visit this place quite comfortably.
How many days are enough to visit Italy?
You can visit the whole of Italy in ten days. If you do not have much time, you can cover that area within seven days. It entirely depends on how much space you are going to cover.
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