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Basilica di San Petronio
The 15th largest church in the world, Basilica di San Petronio is the main place of worship of Bologna. The basilica has been home to the sacred relics of its namesake since 2000, but its claim to fame is its history of sacred instrumental and choral music. Two grand organs installed in 1476 and 1596 often fill the main chapel with music. In the 17th century, astronomer Giovanni Domenico Cassini designed a sundial that's in the paved ground outside the basilica on the left. At 66.8 m (219 ft), it is the longest sundial in the world. Use our Bologna sightseeing planner to visit Basilica di San Petronio on your trip to Bologna, and learn what else travelers and our writers recommend seeing nearby.
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Basilica di San Petronio reviews
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The Basilica of San Petronio stands on Bologna’s main square, Piazza Maggiore. The Basilica is unfinished with the bottom part of the facade white and red marble (the colors of the city), and the...
The Basilica of San Petronio stands on Bologna’s main square, Piazza Maggiore. The Basilica is unfinished with the bottom part of the facade white and red marble (the colors of the city), and the... more »
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Located in the main square of Bologna, its external appearance does not reveal the magnificence of its interior or its spectacular dimensions. We visited it with a GetYourGuide guide, who explained...
Located in the main square of Bologna, its external appearance does not reveal the magnificence of its interior or its spectacular dimensions. We visited it with a GetYourGuide guide, who explained... more »
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It was an impressive basilica. However, as some have mentioned they enforce a strict dress code for women. I don’t agree with this but can respect it however, this basilica seemed to have more of a subjective dress code and were not polite to people who didn’t follow their dress code. Also, the staff inside of the basilica shouted at some tourists. It did not feel like a friendly place to be. This is not necessary and doesn’t feel right being a spiritual place.
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The church is in the main square of Bologna. The church is free to enter. You are expected to pay €2 to take photos. You must cover shoulders and legs. You are expected to do this in most churches in Tuscany as a sign of respect. The church is open from 8:30 to 13:30 pm and 15:00 to 18:30 pm everyday. Well worth a visit as you do not have to pay to enter.
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