Duomo di Modena
Must-SeeEmilia-RomagnaWhere
1099 (UNESCO)Period
Wiligelmo's carved facade, the tilting Ghirlandina tower, and the atmospheric crypt. Italy's finest Romanesque cathedral.
San Miniato al Monte, Florence
Must-SeeFlorenceWhere
1013-1207Period
Green-and-white marble above Florence. Free entry, spectacular sunset views, and Gregorian chant from the monks.
Sant'Ambrogio, Milan
Must-SeeMilanWhere
379-1099Period
Milan's oldest — the golden altar, the serpent column, and the peaceful cloisters.
San Nicola, Bari
Must-SeePugliaWhere
1087-1197Period
Where Santa Claus (St Nicholas) is buried. A powerful pilgrimage church with a carved throne and ancient crypt.
Cefalù Cathedral, Sicily
Must-SeeSicilyWhere
1131-1240Period
Norman-Romanesque with the extraordinary Byzantine Christ Pantocrator mosaic. The most photogenic church in Sicily.
💡 Pro tip: These buildings are almost always free and uncrowded. Visit in the afternoon when tour groups have left.
Where to start
Start with the must-see examples, then explore the hidden gems. Italy's romanesque churches reward the curious visitor.