Genoa Cathedral
Liguria
Genoa Cathedral, also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the historic center of Genoa, Italy. Built primarily between the 12th and 14th centuries, it showcases a remarkable combination of Romanesque and Gothic styles, with later Renaissance and Mannerist additions such as the dome and bell tower. The cathedral stands on a site with ancient Roman burial grounds and was consecrated in 1118 by Pope Gelasius II. Its asymmetrical black and white striped façade and three grand portals reflect French Gothic inspiration. Inside, the basilica-plan church contains three naves and is richly decorated with frescoes and sculptures by artists including Luca Cambiaso, Lazzaro Tavarone, and Andrea Sansovino. The cathedral also features chapels such as the Chapel of St. John the Baptist, which holds the ashes of Genoa's patron saint. Beneath the cathedral lies the Treasury Museum, home to precious artifacts like the Sacro Catino, a green glass artifact historically linked to the Holy Grail legend, and the Byzantine Zaccaria Cross. A unique historical curiosity is the unexploded British naval shell lodged in the nave from a 1941 World War II bombing, which narrowly spared the cathedral from destruction. This blend of architectural grandeur, artistic masterpieces, and rich historical layers makes Genoa Cathedral a must-visit cultural and spiritual landmark.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit Genoa Cathedral during weekdays in the morning to avoid crowds. Consider purchasing tickets for the Treasury Museum in advance to ensure entry. The cathedral offers reduced admission for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website for updated opening hours and any special liturgical celebrations that may affect visiting times.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral houses a British naval shell from 1941 that penetrated the roof but did not explode, sparing the building from destruction.
- •The Sacro Catino, a green glass artifact in the Treasury Museum, was once believed to be the Holy Grail.
- •The cathedral’s façade features characteristic black and white stripes typical of Ligurian Gothic architecture.
- •The Treasury Museum contains relics from the 9th to 13th centuries, including the Byzantine Zaccaria Cross.
- •The bell tower and dome were constructed in the 16th century by architect Galeazzo Alessi.
History
The site of Genoa Cathedral has origins dating back to Roman times, evidenced by excavations revealing ancient walls and burial grounds.
The original church dedicated to Saint Lawrence was built in Romanesque style between the 11th and 12th centuries, funded by Genoa’s Crusader expeditions.
Consecrated in 1118, it became the archbishop’s seat by 1133.
After a fire in 1296, the cathedral underwent partial restoration and Gothic façade completion by 1312.
Renaissance architect Galeazzo Alessi contributed to 16th-century renovations including the dome and nave coverings.
The cathedral was completed in the 17th century and restored around 1900.
Remarkably, it survived World War II bombings with an unexploded shell still embedded inside.
Place Guide
Main Façade1307-1312
The cathedral’s striking Gothic façade features asymmetrical black and white stripes and three majestic portals inspired by French Gothic architecture, completed in the early 14th century.
Interior Naves and Chapels12th-17th centuries
The basilica-plan interior is divided into three naves with Romanesque columns and capitals. It contains notable frescoes such as the Martyrdom of St. Lawrence by Lazzaro Tavarone and the Crucifixion with Saints by Barocci. The Chapel of St. John the Baptist houses the ashes of Genoa’s patron saint.
Dome and Bell Tower16th century
Constructed in the 16th century under the direction of Galeazzo Alessi, the dome crowns the cathedral and the bell tower features seven bells tuned to the major scale of C.
Museum of the TreasuryVarious, 9th-13th centuries
Located beneath the cathedral, the Treasury Museum exhibits a priceless collection of jewellery, silverware, and religious relics dating from the 9th to 13th centuries, including the legendary Sacro Catino and the Byzantine Zaccaria Cross.
Contact
Phone: 010 265786
