Basilica of San Petronio: storia, orari e consigli per la visita.
History
The Basilica of San Petronio dominates Piazza Maggiore with its imposing brick façade, left unfinished in its upper part. Construction began in 1390, and the original design, if completed, would have made it larger than St Peter's in the Vatican — which, according to tradition, is why completion was blocked.
Inside it houses the Cassini Meridian Line, one of the largest astronomical sundials in the world, drawn in 1655.
Did you know…
- The façade remains unfinished on the upper part, where the exposed brick is still visible.
- The Cassini Meridian Line inside is among the largest astronomical sundials in the world.
- The original design would have made it larger than St Peter's in Rome.
Practical information
| Hours | Continuous hours 10:00-18:00 daily (last entry 17:50), as in effect since late June 2026 on the basilica's official website. Hours may vary for religious services: always check the official website before visiting. |
|---|---|
| Ticket | Free entry to the basilica; internal museums and terraces have a separate ticket. |
| Accessibility | Accessible on the main floors; check for access to side chapels and terraces. |
| Getting there | On Piazza Maggiore, right in the historic centre, walkable from anywhere in the centre. |
Tips for your visit
- Look at the façade from both sides of Piazza Maggiore: the difference between the marble lower section and the unfinished upper part is clearer from a distance.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, entry to the basilica is free; some internal areas (museums, terraces) require a separate ticket.