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Church of Sant'Ercolano: A Medieval Tower of Faith

Discover Perugia's tower church dedicated to its patron saint, Sant'Ercolano, blending medieval history with Baroque artistry.

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The Church of Sant'Ercolano, an octagonal tower-like structure, stands as a testament to Perugia's medieval past and devotion to its patron saint. Built between 1297 and 1326 near the ancient Etruscan walls, it honors Sant'Ercolano, a bishop martyred in the 6th century. Its unique architecture and Baroque interior make it a compelling site for visitors.

A brief summary to Church of Sant'Ercolano

  • Thursday 3:30 pm-7:30 pm
  • Friday 3 pm-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-11:30 am

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they are limited and vary throughout the week.
  • Note that the church is not accessible to people with motor disabilities.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the surrounding historic center of Perugia.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Piazza IV Novembre, a central point in Perugia, walk along Corso Vannucci in a southerly direction. Turn right onto Via Sant'Ercolano. Continue along Via Sant'Ercolano; the church will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near the Church of Sant'Ercolano. From the Perugia train station, take bus lines 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13s, 13d, 15, 81, 82, 83, 87, bis28, bis31, bis33, bis34, bis39, bis41, bis44, or bis50 to the 'Tre Archi' or 'Piazza Partigiani' stop. From there, walk along Viale Indipendenza, then turn onto Via Sant'Ercolano. The church will be on your right. A single bus ticket costs €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Perugia. A taxi from the Perugia train station to the Church of Sant'Ercolano typically costs between €9.50 and €15, depending on traffic and the specific route. Taxi stands are located at Piazza Italia, Corso Vannucci and the train station. You can also book a taxi in advance by calling +39 075 500 4888.

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Discover more about Church of Sant'Ercolano

The Church of Sant'Ercolano, located on Via Sant'Ercolano in Perugia, is a distinctive octagonal structure dedicated to the city's patron saint, Herculanus (Sant'Ercolano). Erected between 1297 and 1326, the church stands near the ancient Etruscan walls, marking the site where the saint was believed to have been martyred in 547 AD. Originally, the church was built as a two-story octagonal tower, which also functioned as a bastion within the city walls. However, the upper level was demolished in 1542 during the construction of the Rocca Paolina to improve the fortress's line of fire. The current exterior staircase was modified in the 17th century. Inside, the church features a rich Baroque decoration, a result of remodeling in 1607. The high altar is constructed upon a Roman sarcophagus dating back to the 3rd century AD, which houses the relics of Sant'Ercolano. Frescoes by Giovanni Andrea Carlone (1675) depict the Glory of Saint Paul and scenes from his life. Stucco work by Jean Regnaud adorns the interior, including side chapels dedicated to Saints Martin of Tours and Charles Borromeo. The apse features a 17th-century copy of Perugino's Altarpiece of the Decemvirs, flanked by canvases of Saint Ercolano by Matteuccio Salvucci. The church has undergone several restorations, most recently between 2003 and 2006, to address architectural issues and moisture problems. Today, the Church of Sant'Ercolano stands as a symbol of Perugia's cultural and spiritual heritage, blending Gothic foundations with Baroque grandeur.

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