Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore
Milan, Italy
It has preserved original 5th-century Christian mosaics in the Chapel of Sant'Aquilino, making it one of the oldest such sites in the city.
The Basilica of San Lorenzo in Milan is a quatrefoil central-plan building, dating back to the turn of the 4th and 5th centuries. It is one of the largest surviving sacred complexes of the late Roman Empire. In the adjacent Chapel of Sant'Aquilino, original 5th-century Christian mosaics can be admired. In front of the basilica stands a Roman colonnade of 16 columns, relocated from another building. The site has undergone numerous reconstructions, including a fire in 1071 and the collapse of the dome in 1573. The current dome was rebuilt by Martino Bassi.
- Visit time: 45 min
- Local name: Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore
What to look for
- Chapel of Sant'Aquilino with 5th-century Christian mosaics.
- Roman colonnade of 16 columns in front of the basilica's entrance.
- The interior of the basilica with the dome rebuilt by Martino Bassi.
- Relics of Saint Hippolytus and Saint Lawrence.
Before you go
- Best time: Morning or late afternoon
- Crowds: Higher tourist traffic during midday hours and on weekends.
- Note: Appropriate attire covering shoulders and knees is required. Photography without flash is permitted.
Good to know
- In front of the basilica stand 16 columns, which originally formed part of a Roman temple or bathhouse from the 2nd century, moved to their current location in the 4th century.
- According to legend: According to legend, a pagan altar dedicated to the goddess Ceres previously stood on the site of the current Basilica of San Lorenzo, symbolizing the triumph of Christianity.
Sources: en.wikipedia.org, milanocast.it
How long does it take to visit Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore?
Plan about 45 min.
Nearby
- Columns of San Lorenzo — 90 m
- Basilicas Park — 300 m
- Pasticceria Cucchi — 360 m
- Diocesan Museum of Milan — 440 m
- Basilica of Sant'Eustorgio — 460 m
- Trattoria Milanese — 550 m
Things to do in Milan — all places with visit times
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