Basilica Santuario di Santo Stefano is a historic complex of churches, cloisters, tombs and courtyards. With a quiet and humbling atmosphere, this complex is a peaceful place to spend an afternoon browsing religious art and artifacts.
The complex was built on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to Isis. Dating back to the Romanesque era, the complex originally consisted of seven buildings. Extensive restorations took place in the early 20th century, reducing the complex to the four buildings you see today.
Enter via Chiesa del Crocifisso, a church named for its 14th-century crucifix. Notice the frescoes on the walls, which depict scenes from the life of St. Stefano. Be sure to explore the crypt, where you’ll find five naves divided by a group of unique columns. According to legend, one of these columns represents the exact height of Jesus.
Take a look inside Chiesa del Santo Sepolcro, which once held the relics of San Petronio, the patron saint of Bologna. In 2000, the remains were moved to the Basilica of San Petronio.
Don’t miss the Church of Santi Vitale e Agricola, which incorporates recycled Roman masonry and carvings into its architecture. Keep an eye out for the sarcophagi of St. Vitale and St. Agricola, which have intricate relief decorations depicting lions, deer and peacocks. The cross on the wall,is said to have been held by St. Agricola when he was martyred.
Walk around the Courtyard of Pilates and take a look at the marble basin found at its center. The courtyard is named for this basin, which was rumored to have been used by Pontius Pilate to wash his hands after sentencing Christ to death.
Continue beyond the courtyard to the complex’s cloister and museum. Enter the museum and you’ll find a number of important religious objects, including a piece of cloth said to have belonged to the Virgin Mary.
The Basilica Santuario di Santo Stefano is located east of Piazza Maggiore in the old city. Admission is free.
