Parma Cathedral, Romanesque cathedral in Parma, Italy
Parma Cathedral is a Romanesque church in Parma featuring a wide sandstone facade divided by three loggia levels and flanked by marble lions at the entrance. A Gothic bell tower topped with a copper angel statue crowns the structure and defines the city's skyline.
Construction began in 1074 after a fire destroyed an earlier Christian basilica, with Bishop Guibodo overseeing the initial building phase. The structure reflects the building traditions of its era that shaped Parma's religious identity.
The cathedral houses major artworks, including Correggio's famous Assumption of the Virgin fresco in the dome and extensive frescoes by Lattanzio Gambara in the central nave. Visitors can admire these works in person and understand the spiritual significance the place holds for Parma.
The cathedral opens daily for visitors and offers guided tours through a dedicated smartphone application with information about art and architecture. Guests should wear appropriate clothing as it is a sacred space, and can learn more about different areas during any visit.
The crypt contains ancient Roman columns supporting the vaults and preserves fragments of mosaics from the third century. This underground space also holds the tomb of San Bernardo degli Uberti, making this lesser-visited area particularly valuable for art historians and curious guests.
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