Aquino Cathedral, Minor basilica and co-cathedral in Aquino, Italy

Aquino Cathedral is a minor basilica and co-cathedral in Aquino, Italy. The building combines traditional Italian ecclesiastical design with contemporary elements, featuring balanced proportions and clean geometric shapes.

The first cathedral of Aquino is documented in 1094, when it was donated to the Monastery of Montecassino and dedicated to Saint Peter as San Pietro Vetere. Around the middle of the 13th century it was replaced by the church of San Costanzo, dedicated to the city's patron, a 6th-century bishop of Aquino. That church collapsed at the start of the 18th century and was rebuilt in Baroque style by Bishop De Carolis, inaugurated in 1711. Bombing in 1944 irreparably damaged it, and the present church, designed by the architect Breccia-Fratadocchi, was built on the opposite side of the square and consecrated on 19 October 1963.

The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Thomas Aquinas, a native of Aquino who became one of history's greatest theologians. His connection to this place shapes local identity and draws visitors interested in medieval scholarship.

The cathedral is open to visitors during the week and holds regular Masses that guests can attend. It's worth checking ahead for service times to plan your visit around these gatherings.

The building holds the status of Italian national heritage, marking its historical and architectural importance at the national level. This designation places it among sites of broader interest beyond the local religious community.