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Basilica di San Michele Maggiore: A Lombard Romanesque Masterpiece

Explore Pavia's stunning Basilica di San Michele Maggiore, a Lombard Romanesque masterpiece with a rich history of royal coronations and artistic treasures.

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The Basilica di San Michele Maggiore in Pavia is a stunning example of Lombard Romanesque architecture, dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. It stands on the site of a former Lombard palace chapel and has been the location of numerous royal coronations. Its unique sandstone facade and intricate interior make it a must-see attraction in Pavia.

A brief summary to S. Michele Maggiore Church

  • Monday 8 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-7 pm
  • Friday 8 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the natural light illuminating the interior mosaics and sandstone sculptures.
  • Take time to explore the crypt, which houses beautifully decorated capitals and the monument of the Blessed Martino Salimbene.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary slightly depending on the day of the week.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Piazza San Michele to soak in the atmosphere of Pavia's historic center.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Pavia's city center, such as Piazza della Vittoria, the Basilica di San Michele Maggiore is easily accessible by foot. Walk north along Strada Nuova, the main street, for approximately 500 meters. The basilica will be on your left in Piazza San Michele. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near Piazza San Michele. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. From the Pavia train station, take bus lines 1, 6, 2, 10, 3C to reach the Basilica. The bus ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes, and a single ticket costs €1.30.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Pavia. A taxi ride from the train station to Piazza San Michele typically costs between €8 and €12 and takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Note that in Italy, you typically cannot hail a taxi from the street; you must call one of the taxi companies.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available in the city center, but it can be limited. Consider parking at 'Park Al Centro' on Viale Trieste, which is about a 10-15 minute walk to the Basilica. Hourly parking rates at Park Al Centro are around €1.80, with a daily maximum of €15. Street parking is also available, with fees payable at park-meters.

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Discover more about S. Michele Maggiore Church

The Basilica di San Michele Maggiore, located in Piazza San Michele, Pavia, is a magnificent representation of Lombard Romanesque architecture. Constructed in the 11th and 12th centuries, it stands as a testament to the city's rich history and artistic prowess. The basilica was built on the site of a former Lombard Palace chapel, with archaeological evidence suggesting an even earlier Christian basilica may have existed there. Dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, the church has played a central role in Pavia's religious and political life. It was here that numerous royal coronations took place, including those of Berengar I, Frederick Barbarossa, and many other rulers. The current structure was largely completed by 1155, following a fire in 1004 and an interruption due to an earthquake in 1117. Unlike other churches in Pavia that primarily use brick, San Michele Maggiore is constructed with yellowish sandstone, giving it a distinctive appearance. The facade features sculptures depicting human, animal, and mythical figures, reflecting the artistic style of the period. Inside, the basilica follows a Latin cross plan with a nave, two aisles, and a long transept. The octagonal dome at the crossing of the nave and transept is an early example of Lombard-Romanesque style. The interior features notable mosaics, including the Labours of the Months and mythological themes. The presbytery and crypt contain significant historical and artistic elements, such as the high altar housing the remains of Sts. Ennodius and Eleucadius. The basilica stands as a prototype for other medieval churches in Pavia, such as San Pietro in Ciel d'Oro and San Teodoro.

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