This church sits in the Piazza Maggiore and was founded in 1390 originally intended to be larger than St Peters in Rome. Funds for the building were diverted to Palazzo Archiginnasio leaving the church lopsided in its interior design.
Many people would say this is a beautiful church but I'd say it's average. I've seen much better churches around Italy. This one was not that impressive for me. Maybe the rustic look could be charming for many others. However, it's hard to resist the urge of going into this church since it's right in the main square of the city and it looks giant.
The outside of this church looks unfinished, which it is but the inside is breathtaking. Such a high ceiling and beatutiful artwork. It is the fifth biggest church in Italy (fifteenth in the world) but there is a silence and reverence for such a big church. Only open at certain times of the day so don't miss it.
The outside of the Basilica is very unique, but I still prefer the inside especially because of the meridian line. Very big and fascinating.
It is one of the biggest churches in the world! The interior contains paintings by famous artists - I liked the paintings by da Modena and di Paolo, The sundial on the floor by Domenico Cassini attracted our attention too.
We had to go through security to enter, but we were happy they were trying to keep us safe. Truly amazing place. We didn't have to pay to get in, although a guide book I read before coming said £2.50 . Maybe it was because it was winter. (FEB 15) Like nearly everywhere else in Bologna there was nothing in English and no-one spoke English. Well worth a visit.
If you happen to be around in a sunny day, try to visit at noon (astronomical noon) to see Cassini's calendar based on the height of the sun.
Although It was under construction when I visited, it was beautiful. It is just beside the main square of Piazza Maggiore.
A good place to visit in Piazza Maggiore. A lot of paintings inside also a small museum!!! I recommend!!!!!
As our tour guide pointed out, this church would have been larger than St. Peter's in Rome but Pius VI had construction halted before it got to that size. As a result, wings on the east and west sides were clearly truncated, giving the outside an unfinished look. Inside, though, it's pretty magnificent. You can't take pictures inside but, trust me, it's impressive. It looks out on the equally impressive Piazza Maggiore, often used for festivals or just for buskers.