Located in one of the most attractive squares in Bologna, piazza Rossini, the Church of San Giacomo Maggiore was built between 1267 and 1315 by the Eremite friars of Sant'Agostino. Renovated at the end of the 15h century, San Giacomo presents forms deriving from a pastiche of different styles: Romanesque on the outside, Gothic and late Renaissance on the inside. The latter, which consists of a single large and bright nave, houses famous art treasures, including the Bentivoglio Chapel and the Poggi Chapel. The first, which was built during the 15th century, is still one of the most significant creations of the early Bolognese Renaissance. The second, instead, was constructed during the following century and was designed by Pellegrino Tibaldi for Cardinal Giovanni Poggi. The Renaissance portico that flanks the church is extremely elegant. This portico leads to the church of Santa Cecilia, enriched with splendid frescoes depicting episodes from the life of the Saint and San Valeriano, executed in 1504-06 by the best masters of the Bolognese school. The bell tower, which was built in 1471, is located to the left of the complex and is approximately 55 metres high. The bells concert is considered among the most beautiful in the city.
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Church > Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.; Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.; Sundays and holidays 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
During religious services, tourist visits may be limited or suspended. Hours are subject to slight changes. For information, contact the Archbishop’s Curia at tel. 051225970
Entrance on Via Zamboni
In collaboration with the Italian Touring Club – Bologna
Every Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
OPENING OF THE BENTIVOGLIO CHAPEL -
RESERVATIONS via email and a contribution toward expenses are required ONLY for guided groups: conventosgiacomomaggiore@gmail.com
The bell tower is not normally open to visitors.
