Cattedrale di Bergamo
Bergamo, Lombardy
Situated on Piazza Duomo in the heart of Bergamo’s Città Alta, Cattedrale di Bergamo—also known as the Cathedral of Saint Alexander—celebrates the city’s patron saint. Completed in 1889, this neoclassical landmark boasts a striking white marble facade. Inside, visitors can explore the frescoes, sculptures, and paintings by masters such as Giovanni Battista Moroni and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo.
The basics
Cattedrale di Bergamo is located in the city's Città Alta (Upper Town), the historic center of Bergamo. It’s often included on private walking tours, which typically feature a funicular ride, plus visits to nearby medieval squares like Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe and Piazza Vecchia. Some tours begin in Milan, combining Bergamo's highlights with a visit to a local Franciacorta winery. Independent visitors can opt for self-guided audio tours or games.
Things to know before you go
- The cathedral is wheelchair-accessible with a ramp at the south side entrance, however, certain areas—such as the crypt—can only be accessed by stairs.
- There aren’t any restrooms on-site for public use.
- If you want to eat before or after your visit, then there are plenty of restaurants along Via Gombito.
How to get there
For the most scenic way to get to Bergamo’s Città Alta, you can ride the funicular from the Lower Town of Città Bassa to the Upper Town station. Alternatively, you can get bus 1, which goes from Bergamo station and stops on Piazza Duomo. Parking is limited nearby, so it’s best to take public transport.
When to get there
The cathedral is open throughout the week, typically from early morning until lunchtime, followed by a break, then mid-afternoon to early evening. Hours tend to be slightly longer on weekends. For a more peaceful experience, it’s best to come in the early morning.
Other religious buildings in Bergamo
Bergamo is home to several significant religious buildings beyond Cattedrale di Bergamo. Other notable sights include Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, which is renowned for its stunning frescoes and tapestries, and Chiesa di San Michele al Pozzo Bianco, one of Bergamo’s oldest churches, with beautiful artwork by Italian Renaissance painter Lorenzo Lotto.
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