Chiesa di San Giacomo, Former church and cinema in Ferrara, Italy.

The Chiesa di San Giacomo is a former church in Ferrara now used as a movie theater, displaying Romanesque architecture with rounded arches and robust structural elements. The building preserves its original exterior facade while the interior has been adapted for film screenings.

The Chiesa di San Giacomo was built in the 11th century in Romanesque style. In the early 15th century its floor was raised and the whole building, including the facade in Ferrara terracotta, was reworked. Pope Urban VIII wanted it demolished in 1627, but it was spared after appeals from the people. Napoleonic troops suppressed it as a parish church and sold it to private owners; its bell tower collapsed on 19 June 1821.

The space still shows traditional architectural features from its church period. Visitors notice how the old interior forms and details coexist with the modern movie theater use.

The location near Castello Estense makes it easy to reach when exploring the city. It is advisable to check current film screenings and opening hours before planning a visit.

The bell tower collapsed on 19 June 1821, destroying the canonica and parts of the apse and presbytery. Since the 1970s the former church has been used as a cinema hall. Historian Marco Antonio Guarini claimed the church was built by the Pagano family and that Hugh de Payens, first grand master of the Knights Templar, is buried here.