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Cupola di San Gaudenzio: A Symbol of Novara

Ascend Novara's iconic landmark: a 19th-century architectural masterpiece offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's rich history.

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The Cupola di San Gaudenzio, or Dome of Saint Gaudentius, is the crowning architectural achievement of Novara, Italy. Designed by Alessandro Antonelli, this 19th-century dome stands atop the Basilica of San Gaudenzio and has become an iconic symbol of the city, visible from afar. Visitors can ascend the cupola to experience panoramic views and explore the history of its construction.

A brief summary to Cupola di San Gaudenzio

  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the official website for current opening hours and tour schedules, as they may vary depending on the season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, as the ascent involves stairs and walkways.
  • Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on a guided tour.
  • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking panoramic views of Novara and the surrounding area from the cupola's heights.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Novara's historic center to explore other attractions and soak in the local atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the city center, the Cupola di San Gaudenzio is easily accessible on foot. Orient yourself towards Piazza Martiri della Libertà and walk along Via Gaudenzio Ferrari. The cupola will become visible as you approach, towering above the surrounding buildings. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes and free of charge.

  • Public Transport

    Novara's main train station, Novara FS, is located a short distance from the Cupola di San Gaudenzio. From the station, walk northwest along Corso XX Marzo, then turn right onto Via Gaudenzio Ferrari. Several bus lines also connect the train station to the city center. Take any bus that stops near Piazza Martiri della Libertà. From there, it is a short walk to the cupola. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Novara. A taxi ride from Novara train station to the Cupola di San Gaudenzio typically costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and time of day. Taxi stands are located at the train station and in the main squares.

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Discover more about Cupola di San Gaudenzio

The Cupola di San Gaudenzio is a defining landmark of Novara, Italy, representing the city's identity and architectural ambition. Constructed over forty years, the cupola is the masterpiece of Alessandro Antonelli, renowned for his daring masonry designs, also exemplified by the Mole Antonelliana in Turin. The basilica upon which the cupola stands was built between 1577 and 1690, dedicated to Saint Gaudentius, the first bishop of Novara. In the mid-18th century, Benedetto Alfieri added a bell tower, which dominated the city's skyline until the cupola's construction. The citizens of Novara desired a cupola for their basilica, but funding proved challenging. Through public donations and a special tax on meat, the necessary funds were raised by 1840. Alessandro Antonelli was commissioned to build the cupola and redesign the basilica's facade, though the latter was never fully completed. Antonelli's first design dates back to 1841, with construction beginning three years later. The initial project only saw the completion of the arches. Interrupted by the First Italian War of Independence, Antonelli refined his design, presenting a new plan in 1855 that included an additional crown of pilasters for enhanced visibility. The cupola's summit was finished between 1876 and 1878. In May 1878, a statue of the Savior by Pietro Zucchi was placed atop the 121-meter structure. Today, the original statue is housed inside the basilica, while a fiberglass copy crowns the dome. Visitors can explore the cupola through guided tours, traversing walkways that were once closed to the public. These tours offer a glimpse into the history of this architectural marvel and provide exclusive viewpoints within the structure. From the upper levels, stunning panoramic views of Novara and the surrounding landscape can be enjoyed.

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