An unexploded British bomb dropped during a 1941 raid is displayed inside the cathedral, where it fell but failed to detonate.
The cathedral facade utilizes 'bichromy,' a Genoese architectural style alternating white Carrara marble and dark slate from Lavagna.
The ashes of Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint of Genoa, are kept in the Cathedral's Treasury, allegedly brought here after the Crusades.
The cathedral was officially elevated to a Metropolitan Cathedral in 1133 by Pope Innocent II.
The church was constructed primarily using tax revenues collected from the maritime trade of the Republic of Genoa.
Cattedrale di San Lorenzo is Genoa's primary place of worship, consecrated in 1118 and characterized by its distinct Gothic-Genoese black-and-white striped facade. The interior features a fusion of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, including a central nave supported by columns salvaged from earlier structures. The cathedral is renowned for its 14th-century frescoes, most notably those in the apse and the side chapels. It serves as the official seat of the Archbishop of Genoa. The building houses the Museo del Tesoro in its underground vaults, which stores significant ecclesiastical relics. The cathedral's unique exterior architecture includes two lions guarding the main portal and a distinctive asymmetrical bell tower added in the 16th century. A World War II unexploded bomb remains preserved inside the church, serving as a historic artifact of the city's wartime experience.
From the center of Piazza San Lorenzo, looking up at the striped facade to capture the contrast with the asymmetrical bell tower.
Visit the Treasury museum in the underground vaults to see historical religious relics and liturgical items.
Climb the cathedral tower if the seasonal access is open for a panoramic view of the Genoese rooftops and harbor.
Check the side altars carefully, as many contain significant Renaissance-era funerary monuments.
Attempting to enter during ongoing mass, as tourist access is restricted for respectful observation.
The Treasury museum may have different operating days than the main church; occasionally closed for local religious holidays.
Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered. Silence is strictly observed during religious services.
