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Temples #7 in Aosta

Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e San Giovanni Battista

4.5 · 1,391 reviews
Solemn and historically layered.
Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e San Giovanni Battista, Piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII, 11100 Aosta AO, Italy
Interesting facts
1

The cathedral floor contains a rare 12th-century mosaic depicting the signs of the zodiac and the months of the year.

2

Excavations beneath the cathedral have revealed the foundations of an ancient Roman temple once dedicated to Augustus.

3

The cathedral complex includes an exceptionally preserved 11th-century Romanesque cloister.

4

The facade's portal contains fragments of terracotta decorations dating back to the late Middle Ages.

5

The cathedral is built directly adjacent to the site of the ancient Roman forum of Augusta Praetoria Salassorum.

6

Beneath the choir lies a crypt that features remnants of the original 4th-century building foundations.

Overview

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e San Giovanni Battista in Aosta is a Romanesque-Gothic structure built over the remains of an earlier 4th-century cathedral complex. The current building features a facade decorated with 15th-century terracotta and stone sculptures, alongside significant late-medieval frescoes. The interior houses two separate cloisters, one of which preserves an ancient Roman forum site and funerary inscriptions. Its subterranean crypt dates back to the 11th century and contains remnants of the original Roman-era layout. Visitors can view the medieval mosaic floors found in the choir area, which depict the months of the year and the constellations. The cathedral serves as the seat of the Bishop of Aosta and remains the center of the local diocese.

Photo spot

From the center of Piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII, which provides a clear view of the complex facade.

Insider tips

Visit the cathedral museum to view preserved liturgical treasures and relics.

Look for the entrance to the crypt area, which is often accessible separately from the main nave.

Check the rear of the building for the smaller cloister, which is quieter and less frequented by groups.

What to avoid

Avoid taking photos of ongoing religious services; do not step onto restricted areas of the mosaic floor.

Good to know

The cathedral is typically closed to visitors during mass or private religious ceremonies.

Etiquette

Maintain silence, dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees, and avoid using flash photography.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45-60 minutes
Best time to visit
Late morning, when light filters through the upper windows to illuminate the frescoes.
Address
Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e San Giovanni Battista, Piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII, 11100 Aosta AO, Italy
45.738, 7.318
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleRomanesque and Gothic
Key historical features12th-century zodiac mosaic and 11th-century crypt

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45-60 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late morning, when light filters through the upper windows to illuminate the frescoes..

From the center of Piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII, which provides a clear view of the complex facade.

Close by you'll find Roman Theatre, Criptoportico Forense, Pila.