Santa Maria Maggiore church, Minor basilica in Trento, Italy.
Santa Maria Maggiore is a Renaissance church in Trento built with alternating red and white stone and featuring a central arched doorway. The bell tower stands 53 meters tall, making it the highest church tower in the city.
Construction took place between 1520 and 1524 under the direction of Prince-Bishop Bernardo Clesio, replacing an earlier church that had occupied the site since the 4th century. Before that, the ground held Roman bathing facilities that served the ancient city.
The church served as a meeting place for Church officials debating faith and practice during a pivotal period of religious reform. People visiting today can sense how this building once hosted discussions that shaped Catholic traditions across Europe.
The building reopened in 2012 following extensive restoration and archaeological research, with full wheelchair accessibility throughout the interior. Visitors should check current opening times before visiting, as religious services may occasionally limit access.
Excavations beneath the church uncovered remains of an ancient Roman forum and foundations of an early Christian bishop's church from the 4th century. These hidden layers reveal how the same spot served as a center of power and faith for over 1200 years.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
