Overview
The grandiose UNESCO World Heritage monument
Standing majestically among the main symbols of the Piazza Grande is Modena Cathedral, a spectacular example of Romanesque architecture, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its official name is the Cattedrale Metropolitana di Santa Maria Assunta e San Geminiano, also known as the “House of Saint Geminianus”, and it is the most important place of worship in the city.
Modena Cathedral was built by architect Lanfranco on the site of the tomb of St Geminianus, the patron saint of Modena, whose relics are housed in its crypt. The construction of the cathedral took 85 years in total, from 1099 to 1105, but the result is an artistic masterpiece of unparalleled beauty.
The façade is divided into three sections. The arcade spans the entire width of the structure and in the centre, at the top, is a large rose window, providing light to the interior. The sculptures on the main portal are stunning, representing the struggle between Good and Evil.
Don’t miss the metopes, eight reliefs depicting fantastical creatures, with human and non-human features.
