Genoa Cathedral

Genoa, Italy

Genoa Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Lawrence (San Lorenzo), and is the seat of the Archbishop of Genoa. The cathedral was consecrated by Pope Gelasius II in 1118 and was built between the twelfth century and the fourteenth century as fundamentally a medieval building, with some later additions.

Various altars and chapels have been erected between the 14th and 15th centuries. The small loggia on the north-eastern tower of the façade was built in 1455; the opposite one, in Mannerist style, is from 1522. In 1550 the Perugian architect Galeazzo Alessi was commissioned by the city magistrates to plan the reconstruction of the entire building; however, he executed only the covering of the nave and aisles, the pavement, the dome and the apse.

The construction of the cathedral finished in the 17th century. The dome and the medieval parts were restored in 1894-1900.

The Museum of the Treasury lies under the cathedral and holds a collection of jewellery and silverware from 9 AD up to the present. Among the most important pieces are the sacred bowl brought by Guglielmo Embriaco after the conquest of Caesarea and supposed to be the chalice used by Christ during the Last Supper.

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Founded: 1118
Category: Religious sites in Italy

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

The Foodie Architect (3 months ago)
Construction began at 1110 and was completed in the 17th century. This church features a blend of architectural styles from different time periods. The impressive artwork includes paintings by various masters. I was in awe of the unique and impressive mix of styles.
Alice (4 months ago)
The Cathedral of San Lorenzo in Genoa is a magnificent testament to both medieval and Renaissance architecture. Its grand facade and ornate interior, adorned with intricate frescoes and sculptures, are awe-inspiring. The cathedral's history, dating back to the 12th century, adds depth to its significance. Visiting San Lorenzo Cathedral offers a profound cultural and spiritual experience, reflecting Genoa's rich heritage and religious devotion.
Big Fish Dive Club (5 months ago)
What a beautiful church! We also climbed the tower for a wonderful bird’s eye view of the old town. So worth the effort to get up there. Highly recommended.
Phil Bradford (5 months ago)
Genoa Cathedral suddenly appears as something of surprise if you approach it from the narrow, dark streets of the old city, looming impressively over the small piazza. Like so many Italian cathedrals, it is a striking building externally, but it is well worth exploring the fascinating interior too. It is initially quite gloomy, but once the eyes adjust there is a wealth of detail to appreciate, both in the architecture and the artwork, as well as the various chapels and ecclesiastical features.
Samantha Platt (7 months ago)
The main Cathedral in the heart of Genoa. While the inside is not as intricate and highly decorated as the original Basilica, it is still a very impressive cathedral. The front is more highly decorated than the entry area and the organs are stunning. It's true beauty can be experienced from the outside where stone lions guard the elaborate stone columns that form the entrance. The use of different coloured stone to make the decoration is truly sublime. A very busy Cathedral, but highly recommended.
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