Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, located in Bergamo’s Città Alta, is one of northern Italy’s most
stunning Romanesque churches. Built in the 12th century, this basilica stands as a timeless symbol
of Bergamo’s devotion and artistry.
While its exterior is modest, the interior reveals breathtaking frescoes, intricate wood carvings,
tapestries, and marble decorations that reflect centuries of craftsmanship. The basilica is also home
to the tomb of Gaetano Donizetti, the city’s celebrated composer.
A visit to Santa Maria Maggiore offers travelers a journey through faith, art, and history — a true
spiritual and cultural gem of Bergamo.
- Admire the Romanesque façade 🏰 and the richly decorated Baroque interior 👑✨⚜️
- View the frescoes 🖼️ by Giovan Battista Tiepolo 🧑🎨 and other Renaissance masters 🎨👀
- Explore the intricately carved wooden choir stalls 🪵 by Lorenzo Lotto 👑💡
- Visit the tomb ⚰️ of Gaetano Donizetti 🎶, Bergamo’s famous composer 🎼🎵
- Observe the detailed tapestries 🧶 and marble altars 🙏 throughout the nave 🏰✨
- Located 📍 in Piazza Duomo ⛪, next to Cappella Colleoni 🕌 in Città Alta 🏘️✅
- From Bergamo Train Station 🚆: Take the Funicolare di Bergamo 🚠 to Città Alta ⛰️, then walk 🚶♂️ 10 minutes ⏱️💨
- By Car 🚗: Limited parking 🅿️⚠️ in Upper Town – best accessed 👣 on foot 👍✅
- Dress modestly 👗 as it’s an active place of worship ⛪🙏👚
- Avoid flash photography 📸🚫 to preserve the artworks 🖼️💡
- Visit early ⏰ in the day to enjoy a quieter experience 🤫😌
- Combine your visit 🤝 with nearby Cappella Colleoni 🕌 and the Duomo di Bergamo 🏛️🗺️✅
- 9:30 AM – Arrive 🧭 at Piazza Duomo ⛪ and visit Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore 🕌🙏💨
- 10:15 AM – Explore Cappella Colleoni 🏰 next door 🚪👀
- 11:00 AM – Enjoy coffee ☕ nearby 🥐 in Città Alta’s Piazza Vecchia 😋😌
- 12:00 PM – Walk 🚶♀️ to the Venetian Walls 🛡️ for panoramic city views 🏙️👀👋
