If you are looking for the most beautiful churches in Italy that warrant a visit, take a look at our curated list!
Italy is home to countless beautiful churches. Since we can’t list them all, let’s narrow down the list for easier access and enjoyment. You can make a bucket list if you want to and make ours your guide.
From the grandest cathedral to the tiniest church, whether steeped in history or significant for their architecture, Italy’s churches each possess unique characteristics that make their beauty captivating, even at first glance.
Whether you’re looking at photos or visiting in person, these religious structures have a captivating charm for both viewers and visitors. Each Italian church carries a unique significance along with its location’s rich history, showcasing Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, or modern architecture. These churches offer captivating sights for reflection.
Can’t wait any longer? Neither can we! Let’s embark on our journey to uncover the most stunning churches in Italy – and create our very own pilgrimage from north to south.
13 Most Beautiful Churches in Italy
Here are the 13 most beautiful churches in Italy that warrant a visit.
1. St. Mark’s Basilica, Venice
Observing the bewitching beauty of St. Mark’s Basilica through its façade in numerous well-captured photos is something that would inspire anyone to witness this cathedral in person. Located in Venice, this is one of the most beautiful churches in Italy and one of the most famous tourist spots in the world.
The design of St. Mark’s Basilica is a delightful blend of Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic styles, drawing inspiration from Constantinople’s Church of the Holy Apostle.
Interestingly, several elements of the structure, including columns, reliefs, and sculptures, were sourced from there, serving as a symbol of Venetian participation in the Fourth Crusade. At the entrance, the presence of the ancient bronze horses further pays tribute to Constantinople’s influence.
St. Mark’s stunning façade from the 13th century and its beautiful interior walls are made using valuable stones and unique marbles, displaying the richness and importance of the country.
The interiors of the domes are adorned with golden artistic mosaics depicting biblical scenes featuring prophets and saints. The marble mosaic floor displays intricate geometric designs.
Named after St. Mark, the cathedral features his statue at the chancel, along with the Virgin and the 12 Apostles. On either side of the chancel, there are bronze reliefs depicting scenes from St. Mark’s life and his miracles.
The high altar houses St. Mark’s relics in gilded silver since 1835. Below the baldachin, St. Mark’s remains rest in the crypts, serving as a remarkable tribute.
2. St. Anthony of Padua Basilica, Padua
St. Anthony of Padua Basilica might not be a cathedral but undoubtedly possesses captivating beauty, making it one of the most beautiful churches in Italy.
In 1232, a year after St. Anthony’s death, the construction of the basilica began and continued until 1310. Despite lacking a specific architectural design, many tourists, especially pilgrims, still visit the place.
The basilica’s façade showcases Romanesque brickwork, a Gothic balcony and aisle. The overall exterior appearance is a blend of Romanesque, Byzantine, and touches of Gothic. The treasury chapel, built in 1691, follows a Baroque style. For the best picturesque view, head to the northwest side of the basilica.
St. Anthony Basilica’s interior boasts numerous intriguing valuable pieces. The most renowned feature is found in the high altar – the Madonna and Child with six statues of Saints, all created by the iconic Italian Renaissance artist, Donatello.
The Blessed Sacrament Chapel exhibits Gothic details with mosaic artworks depicting the descending light of the Holy Spirit. A bronze tabernacle, sculpted by the famous Italian sculptor Girolamo Campagna, rests in the right aisle and houses the tomb of Erasmo Stefano of Narni, a well-known condottiero who also went by the name “Gattamelata.”
Within the Baroque Treasury Chapel, one can view relics of St. Anthony. His body rests beneath the chapel now known as the Chapel of the Dark Madonna.
As a part of the basilica, the Gothic-style St. James Chapel features frescoes of St. James and an essential 14th-century painting called the Crucifixion – a masterpiece by Altichiero da Zevio.
Moreover, Donatello’s work, the equestrian monument of Condottiero Gattamelata, stands as a famous attraction that one must see during the visit.
The eight-dome basilica undoubtedly ranks among the most beautiful churches in Italy.
3. Duomo di Milano, Milan
From its world-famous fashion events emerges an astonishing beauty that captivates tourists worldwide: the Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica of the Nativity of Saint Mary, also known as the Duomo di Milano or simply Milan Cathedral.
This cathedral and minor basilica stands as one of the most beautiful churches in Italy that many tourists yearn to visit.
Marvel at the Gothic and Renaissance architecture of the Duomo di Milano, adorned with 135 marble spires that symbolize powerful religious significance, crowned by a golden Madonnina at its center top.
As one of the tallest churches in the country, the Milan Cathedral was finally completed after almost six centuries, from 1386 to 1965. This grand edifice is constructed with brick and marbles, while its illumination features the latest LED lights.
The interior boasts numerous statues and artworks, creating a space that appeals not only to religious believers but also to art enthusiasts. Even the main door of the church showcases art pieces worthy of admiration.
One of the most distinctive features of the Duomo di Milano is its accessible rooftop, allowing visitors to enjoy picturesque views and observe the myriad spires and sculptures up close for a fee. Additionally, the west end of the Duomo’s floor features a meridian line.
Were you aware that a statue of Napoleon Bonaparte can be found on one of Milan Cathedral’s spires, and that he was crowned King of Italy at the Duomo as well?
4. San Michele Church in Foro, Lucca
In Lucca, in the Tuscany region of Italy, stands an almost angelic white historical church, San Michele — a basilica dedicated to Archangel Michael.
Built on an old Roman forum in the 8th century, the beautiful church follows the Romanesque style of architecture. It was reconstructed in 1070 and completed in the 14th century.
San Michele’s shape features a Latin cross base in its floor plan. Its four-level loggia, adorned with ironwork, graces the façade, topped with a statue of Archangel Michael standing between two other angels. The lower part is encircled by arches and columns, including the main door.
Inside, the church boasts three naves adorned with artworks such as Madonna and Child by Andrea della Robbia, a relief by Raffaello da Montelupo, and paintings by Filippino Lippi. A bell tower and crypts can be found under the altar.
While San Michele Church might not be as famous as others on the list, its undeniable beauty earns it a spot as one of Italy’s churches worth visiting.
Did you know that during the rule of Giovanni dell’Agnello (1364 – 1368), San Michele’s bell tower had its top floor demolished because the bells’ sound could even reach Pisa?
5. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – also known as Duomo di Firenze, or simply the Florence Cathedral – is not only one of the most beautiful and frequently visited churches in Italy but also in Europe.
Combining Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance architecture, the Florence Cathedral was constructed between 1296 and 1436. It also ranks as one of the largest churches in the country, constructed from brick and marble.
The overall design of Florence’s Duomo takes the shape of a cross. Its remarkable band on the brown sandstone of its Neo-Gothic façade is composed of dazzling pink, white, and green marbles.
The red-tiled cupola was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, while the bell tower was designed by Giotto de Bondone. All the portals display Madonna images, created by renowned Italian sculptors – especially Donatello, many of whose other statues are found within the basilica.
The famous 44 windows are made of stained glass that depicts characters from the Bible. The interior of the dome features a colorful series of Last Judgement paintings by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari, as well as Domenico di Michelino’s artwork depicting Dante and The Divine Comedy.
Thanks to the efforts of many individuals responsible for completing the Florence Cathedral, the tomb of one of the main architects, Brunelleschi, can be found in the crypt near the entrance. The burial sites of Cardinal Giovanni Benelli and Giotto are also located here.
6. Pisa Cathedral, Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the city’s most famous landmark, but the beautiful Pisa Cathedral is another highlight.
Situated in the center of the Piazza dei Miracoli, this Pisan Romanesque-style cathedral was constructed between 1063 and 1092. It stood as a symbol of bravery, enduring attacks despite its location outside the walls of Pisa.
From the 1595 church fire that occurred, Pisa Cathedral’s current structure is the outcome of several restorations. The exterior is a lavish blend of colorful marble decorations, mosaics, and bronze objects on its façade, crowned by a statue of Madonna and Child and three bronze portals below.
The interior showcases gray marble columns with Corinthian capitals that support the 17th-century wooden coffered ceiling adorned with several paintings: The Saints with Our Lady Graces by Andrea del Sarto, Madonna Enthroned with the Saints by Raphael’s student Perin del Vaga, and Cross with the Saints by Giovanni Battista Paggi. The latest restoration took place between 2015 and 2018.
Interestingly, the center lamp in the cathedral’s nave is known as “Galileo’s lamp.” It’s named after Galileo Galilei, who used the roof to observe pendulum oscillations, leading to his formulation of the pendulum theory.
7. Siena Cathedral, Siena
Tuscany proudly showcases an array of stunning churches. The breathtaking Duomo di Siena, or the Siena Cathedral, unquestionably deserves a spot on the list of the most beautiful churches in Italy. It is an architectural masterpiece created through the fusion of Classical, Italian Gothic, and Romanesque designs, built from 1196 to 1348.
Before entering, be astonished by the artistic façade made up of mosaics, sculptured gargoyles, and saints, featuring three doorways and impressive marble bands around the exterior.
The must-see view of the cathedral is on the west side of the façade, where the main portal — a recent bronze door — is crowned by a bronze sun. The large round stained-glass window symbolizes the Last Supper and was created by Pastorino de’ Pastorini.
The cathedral’s interior has a two-aisle nave with picture-perfect, bewitching, and uniquely crafted black and white striped marble columns. The floors, usually carpeted, except for six weeks, including September, showcase 56 mosaic marble panels designed by different artists and are among the numerous masterpieces found inside the cathedral.
Did you know that a historic flagpole can be found inside the Siena Cathedral? A Sienese spy named Bocca degli Abati brought down the Florence flag, which led to panic among Florentine soldiers and eventually resulted in defeat.
8. Orvieto Cathedral, Orvieto
After more than three centuries in the making, comes a beauty to behold: one of the most beautiful churches in Italy, Orvieto Cathedral in the Umbria region.
The Italian Gothic architectural structure has served as a pilgrimage site for Roman Catholics. This is due to the relic of the Holy Corporal that is kept in the Cappella del Corporale in the cathedral. This relic is connected to the Eucharistic Miracle that occurred in Bolsena in 1263, when a consecrated Host began to release drops of blood onto the Corporal cloth beneath it, where the host and chalice were resting.
The cathedral boasts a remarkable Gothic façade with golden symbols crafted by Lorenzo Maitani, and a central rose window by Orcagna surrounded by six gables.
Inside, there are splendid columns, a large apse window by Giovanni di Bonino, and the Madonna di San Brizio Chapel, adorned with frescoes by Luca Signorelli. Adjacent to the cathedral’s right side is a Papal Palace.
Did you know that there is a large organ found above the entrance of the Corporal Chapel of the Orvieto Cathedral? The organ has 5000 pipes and was originally built in the 15th century but was redesigned in 1913 and 1975.
9. Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, Assisi
Still in Umbria, the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi was named after one of the most famous Italian saints, St. Francis, born and died there, making it a must-visit pilgrimage destination.
Designated as a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site since 2000, the basilica boasts a Romanesque and Italian Gothic structure constructed since 1227. The hilly location of this two-church basilica is incredibly serene, offering a tranquil site to explore.
The Upper Church’s façade showcases white-washed bricks, a rose window, a Baroque-style Benedictine loggia, and a grand Gothic twin portal.
Inside, the Italian Gothic interior boasts a spacious layout with a remarkable cross-vaulted ceiling adorned in vibrant blue paint. Cimabue’s deteriorated frescoes, along with frescoes by the young Giotto, grace the walls. Regrettably, the 1997 earthquake damaged parts of the church, particularly the upper nave’s sides.
The Lower Church boasts an impressive side entrance featuring a twin door with a column between them, along with a large rose window above and two smaller “eyes.”
Numerous small chapels within the Lower Church house works by various artists, including some of Giotto’s finest pieces and Cimabue’s frescoes.
The crypt, where the tomb of St. Francis is located, can be found halfway down the nave through a double stairway. The urn of St. Francis’s faithful friend Brother Jacoba (Jacopa dei Settesoli) is also housed in the crypt.
Did you know that the hillside location of the Basilica of Saint Francis was once a place where criminals were executed, earning it the name “Hill of Hell”? Today, it is referred to as the Hill of Paradise.
10. St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City
At the heart of St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican stands Italy’s famous St. Peter’s Basilica, which stands as a prominent example of Renaissance architecture with significant Baroque features. It is often hailed as the pinnacle of its era’s construction.
This monumental structure, known as the papal church, holds great significance as a pilgrimage destination. An epitome of Christian and Catholic sanctity, it holds the traditional distinction of being the resting place of its namesake, St. Peter. He led Jesus’ twelve Apostles and served as the first Bishop of Rome, establishing his role as the inaugural Pope.
Founded between 1506 and 1625, it’s the world’s largest church by interior space, designed by renowned architects like Michelangelo and Bernini.
The basilica’s façade boasts a travertine exterior with Corinthian columns and squares that serve as windows on the attic. These squares hold statues of Christ, Apostles, and clocks, masterpieces by architect Carlo Maderno.
Inside, find Mardeno’s three-bay nave leading to Michelangelo’s main nave, housing iconic works like Michelangelo’s Pieta and captivating marble-adorned chapels.
The dome’s frescoes and 39 Saint statues add to the awe. Notably, St. Peter’s Basilica holds over a hundred tombs, mainly of popes, including the recent addition of Benedict XVI’s tomb on January 5, 2023.
11. Naples Cathedral, Naples
Nestled in the heart of Naples, the Naples Cathedral – dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption – boasts a breathtaking beauty that captivates the senses.
Built on the same foundation as two previous Christian churches, the cathedral is now the main Roman Catholic church in town, honoring the miraculous Saint Januarius.
An amazing architectural style that combines Gothic, Neoclassical, Renaissance, and Baroque elements is evident in Naples Cathedral’s intricately detailed façade featuring rose windows.
The three portals of Naples Cathedral will lead you to the grand nave and the rich interior, adorned with magnificent columns and arches. Picturesque frescoes and mosaics can be found on the ceilings, painted by Domenico Zampieri.
It is well-known for safeguarding the relics of Saint Januarius, the patron saint of Naples. That’s why the cathedral is also called Cattedrale di San Gennaro (Cathedral of Saint Januarius).
Its most notable feature is the main altar, showcasing the astonishing 1739 masterpiece Assumption of Saint Agripino, Acuzio, and Eutiche by Pietro Bracci.
In addition, an ampoule containing Saint Januarius’ blood is kept inside the altar. Whether the blood liquefies or not, it holds significant meaning for the church.
12. Amalfi Cathedral, Amalfi
From the wonderful Amalfi Coast comes one of the most beautiful churches in Italy: the Amalfi Cathedral.
Also known as St. Andrew’s Cathedral, this church is so mystical that you would not want to miss visiting it. The cathedral is a product of Arab-Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles dating back to the 9th century.
From the Piazza del Duomo, you can marvel at the artistic façade of the cathedral, made of striped marbles, stones, and mosaics in the tall pediments. A grand 62-step staircase will then lead you to the bronze door of the cathedral, which was made in Constantinople.
Once inside the church, a wide central nave will greet you. The interiors are adorned with marble-designed columns and arches, along with frescoes on the ceilings depicting the life of St. Andrew by the 17th-century painter Andrea dell’Asta. The main altar also features marble decorations and carvings.
Beside the Amalfi Cathedral is the Chiostro del Paradiso. This place used to be the graveyard of noble families in Amalfi but has since been transformed into a serene area with a beautiful garden, preserving frescoes from medieval times in the surroundings.
13. Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome
The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is an ancient Catholic basilica, recognized as Rome’s largest church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It likely served as Rome’s initial official Christian worship site, built by Pope Callistus I in the 3rd century and completed by Saint Julius I in 340.
The basilica incorporates Romanesque, Ancient Roman, and Baroque architectural elements. As one of Rome’s four major basilicas and a part of the Seven Pilgrim Churches, it also holds the title of Rome’s largest Catholic Marian church.
This basilica was constructed at the spot where Pope Liberius dreamt of the Virgin Mary and where a miraculous snowfall occurred on August 5, even amidst summer. This event is remembered annually through the tradition of dropping white flower petals from the ceiling.
Beneath the high altar lies the Crypt of the Nativity or Bethlehem Crypt, housing a crystal reliquary designed by Giuseppe Valadier, which is said to contain wood from the Holy Crib of Jesus Christ’s nativity.
The grand and impressive Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore not only serves as a captivating landmark but also stands as a tribute to the courageous Christian missionaries who dedicated their lives to spreading the Christian faith in this area.
