The Cattedrale di Sant’Emidio is a magnificent structure of great religious importance in the Old Town quarter of Ascoli Piceno. It is recognizable by its lopsided façade, featuring two Romanesque towers, one significantly taller than the other. Snap photos of this iconic site and appreciate its majesty and rich history.
Stroll around the large and impressive Piazza Arringo and gaze up at the cathedral, neighbored by some of the city’s most historic buildings. The church dates back as early as the 4th century and has been added to and restored many times since then.
Admire the intricate features of the 16th-century rectangular façade. Notice the four Corinthian columns that run across the front and the carved frame of the central portal. The church and its tower are particularly impressive at night, when numerous lights make it glow.
Enter the church and notice the artworks lining the walls. Gaze up at the 19th-century fresco by Cesare Mariana that adorns the interior of the central dome. Among the highlights is the spectacular altarpiece in the Sacrament Chapel. Head to the Chapel of the Madonna delle Grazie to see the mosaics of Pope John XXIII.
Descend into the marvelous crypt, whose walls were decorated at the end of World War II with colorful mosaics. These portray poignant moments from the war.
Listen to the ring of the cathedral’s five bells, the oldest of which dates back to the 16th century.
Note that the museum opens daily from early morning until midday and then again a few hours later until the evening. Admission is free.
Find the Cattedrale di Sant’Emidio in the heart of the historic center of Ascoli Piceno. Ride a bus to one of the stops in the area or get around the district on foot. Visit other nearby sights, such as the Museo Archeologico Statale, the Palazzo dell’Arengo and the Piazza Roma.
