As one of Verona’s most sacred Catholic sites, the Verona Cathedral (Duomo) attracts thousands of visitors each year who come here to worship and to admire its beautiful architecture. Inside, discover a series of small chapels, arched ceilings and breathtaking frescoes and sculptures. Attend a morning religious service delivered by Verona’s bishop or enjoy a moment of private reflection in one of the chapels.
The Verona Cathedral was built in the 12th century on the foundations of a medieval church that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1117. However, the cathedral’s façade and interior have been renovated several times. Walk around the Verona Cathedral of today and observe the number of styles used during its construction.
Pass the statues of holy guards that mark the entrance to the church. Gaze up at the high, arched ceilings to admire the Renaissance details of the walls and roof. Gothic windows adorn the church’s façade and columns made from red Verona marble loom between the three aisles.
Walk down the first of the three aisles that run down the nave to reach the Capella Nichesola, a small chapel on the left side of the church. Upon entering, admire Titian’s enormous Renaissance fresco Assumption of the Virgin.
Continue through the cathedral to arrive at the other chapels, including the Capella Mazzanti, home to the sarcophagus of St. Agatha. Explore the baptistery of San Giovanni and notice the octagonal font, which was carved from a single block of marble. Next to the baptistery is the tiny chapel of St. Helen, where Roman floor mosaics adorn the floor.
Services are held throughout the week at the Verona Cathedral. Be mindful of others if you visit during these times. A small admission fee applies to enter and the cathedral is open daily. Located on the banks of the Fiume Adige, the cathedral can be reached on foot or by bus. Some metered street parking can be found in the area.
