Early Christian basilica of Saint Vigilius

The Early Christian basilica of Saint Vigilius is an archaeological site beneath Trento's Cathedral, preserving remains from the fourth century. The excavations reveal a building with three entrance doors, original mosaic decorations near the chancel area, and an underground structure hidden beneath modern cathedral foundations.

The basilica was founded in the fourth century as a burial site for the martyrs Sisinius, Martyrius, and Alexander, who died in the region in 397. Between the ninth and tenth centuries, the location underwent transformation and gradually developed into the foundation for today's cathedral.

The basilica served as a sacred gathering place for early Christians in the region, where pilgrims came to venerate the remains of local martyrs. Walking through the excavated space today, you can sense how important this site was for religious devotion in medieval times.

Visiting requires entry through the Cathedral, where multimedia stations and virtual reality displays help explain the archaeological finds. It is helpful to allow enough time to explore the underground rooms at a relaxed pace and study the details of the excavations.

Beneath the altar of the modern cathedral lies an early Christian burial chamber dedicated to Saint Vigilius, which remained hidden for centuries before excavation. This concealed chamber connects the city's oldest religious layers to the sanctuary built above it.