Situated in Piazza Maggiore the imposing front face of the basilica stands out immediately, its…read morehalf-brick, half-finished white and red marble lower half stark in contrast. The finished face of the cathedral is sparsely adorned compared to similar church buildings of the same period. Inside the soaring cream-colored vaulted ceilings also contrast with the terra-cotta column and archway edges, another reflection of the white and red colors of the city. The main apse ceiling appears modest and undecorated, though a few of the smaller chapel ceilings exemplify the colorful murals that may have been intended for the total ceiling once finished. Interestingly enough when looking up some history this basilica was meant to serve as a more of a civil center rather than purely religious building. Entry is free (donations suggested) and no advance reservation is needed. When I came by on a Tuesday afternoon in April the church was finishing up a service, all the while allowing passersby to enter and visit, of course asking to maintain a respectful silence. Parishioners lit candles and prayed in front of the local patron saint as well as at individual chapels. Intriguing to get a glimpse into how different cultures interact in places of worship.

The Italian Gothic basilica is dedicated to Saint Petronius, who was the bishop of Bologna in the…read more5th century. A life size statue of him is in the basilica. It was built in 1390 and its main facade is still unfinished. The building was transferred from the city to the diocese in 1929 and was consecrated in 1954. 28,000 people can fit inside, it is enormous. The altar contains a 15th-century wooden crucifix. At the back, a fresco of the Madonna and cartoons. The ornate ciborium of the main altar was built in 1547. The 15th century wooden choir was completed by Agostino de 'Marchi. The vaulting and decoration of the central nave is by Girolamo Rainaldi, who completed it in 1646. The nave contains twenty-two side chapels each more ornate than the next. In 2002 five Al Quads terrorists were arrested, they were planning to blow up the basilica. They were angry a fresco depicts Mohammed in hell being devoured by demons.

Venice's only Gothic church. It is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary. It is simply called "I…read moreFrari" as it was built by the brothers (frati) of the Franciscan order. LOCATION: In the San Polo sestiere but I remember just stumbling onto it while walking the island from my hotel in Dorsoduro to the train station on the opposite side of the island. ADMISSION: €3 Modest dress requested. I'm an atheist but as Christianity was highly influential in shaping European history I visit churches with the intent of understanding the history (and sometimes) art in shaping a region's cultural identity. As the Frari is not in San Marco, Rialto or any other major Venetian landmark I would've easily missed this church if not for Rick Steves' audioguide (http://podcasts.ricksteves.com/walkingtours/FrariChurch.mp3). His reasoning is that offers an opportunity to experience art in-situ (right where it was designed to be seen) as opposed to hanging in a museum. The audioguide explains the major art pieces in detail way better than I ever can. Here's a summary of the major pieces inside the church. - Titian's Assumption of Mary. This is considered to be Titian's magnum opus and his first major commission from a church. It's located behind the main altar. Its depiction of Mary was revolutionary for its time as she is seen as triumphant and depicted in soft and warm colors. - Titian's Madonna of Ca' Pesaro. What's significant is that this broke Renaissance tradition by depicting Mary and Jesus off-center and interacting with the commonfolk. - Giovanni Bellini's Madonna and Child aka the Frari Triptych. - Tombs of Titian and Canova. Titian had his tomb decorated with a relief of his most famous painting. On the other side Canova's cenotaph (Venice's most famous sculptor) is pyramid-shaped and was once meant for Titian, but when the church used the present design his pupils repurposed it for their master instead. It's a cenotaph because he isn't buried here but an urn contains his heart. Once you're done exploring the church the surrounding area is quieter than San Marco or Rialto. It makes for a good lunch/dinner spot and the prices are more reasonable.

Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari (aka Frari Church) was one of my favorite attractions in Venice…read more The church is beautiful, there were no lines to wait in, and the cost was only 3 Euros per person. Frari church has many beautiful Venetian sculptures. The main highlight at this church is Titian's Assumption over the main alter. We downloaded Rick Steves' free audio tour onto to our iPods and it really added to the experience since our knowledge on Venetian art and Frari Church were minimal. You can download the free audio tour at: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/italy-audio-tours/id272230438 After you visit the church I recommend checking out the Dorsoduro neighborhood along the Grand Canal and buying a cone of gelato!

This complex of churches built at different times is incredible…read more These churches may not have all the bling and flash that others do but they are steeped in history and beautiful in their own way. It's crazy to think about how old they are and that they've lasted this long. I'm glad though because this was a gorgeous experience. Not only can you stroll around but you can rest and relax here (to get away from the sun and heat, like we did). There is also an exhibit with some art to look at and a very nice gift shop with a restroom (and and extremely nice person working the counter who let us use it for free.) I'd highly recommend taking some time out of your day to explore this place.

There are so many churches in Bologna and this maybe the most iconic one that you should visit if…read moreyou want to know more about the History of Bologna. The basilica of Santo Stefano located on Piazza Santo Stefano, it is locally known as Sette Chiese "Seven Churches" and Santa Gerusalemme "Holy Jerusalem". - Church of the Holy Sepulchre has a reproduction of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem - Church of the Holy Crucifix - Church of the Saints Vitale and Agricola - Courtyard of Pilate - Church of the Martyrium - Chapel of the Bandage The whole complex with different sections where built and rebuilt between the 5th Century and 13th Century. A tribute to Life of Jesus and their patron saints. Admission is free so definitely drop by for a visit.

This Basilica is small but beautiful. Make sure to follow the dress code, knees and shoulders…read morecovered. There are additional features that you need to get separate tickets for (or get a bundle) so make sure to do your research beforehand and and book appropriately. It will be a short visit given the venue isn't large but it's worth it when you're in Venice!

Basilica di San Marco or the St. Mark's Basilica is dedicated to St. Mark, the patron saint of the…read morecity and a house for his relics. This is without a doubt the most important religious site in the city of Venice. At the time of our visit, there was construction on front of the building, but it was still beautiful. It is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture with Gothic influences. There was so much incredible detail that went into every inch of the building. I did not get to go inside but the outside was already impressive. A great spot for photos.

Extraordinary basilica with the 6th century Byzantine Mosaic work. Vibrant colored mosaic tiles…read morethat has stood the test of time. The basilica is a protected site (UNESCO World Heritage status). Beautiful. One must buy a multiple site ticket at the ticket office close to the basilica in order to view inside. A must see and an easy day trip from Bologna in Emilia Romagna.

Ravenna is famous for the mosaics in the various churches in town. You can purchase a pass that…read moreallows you to visit a few places. We visited the Galla Placidia, San Vitale, Baptistero Neoniano, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo. The mosaics are stunning! One of my favorites was the Baptistery with its round dome and 12 apostles with the baptism of Christ in the middle. The gold and blue colors of the tiles are striking. (first photo) Another favorite is the Sant'Apollinare Nuovo with its wood ceiling and arched columns. (second photo)

What a beautiful Basilica. The Basilica contains the earthly remains of Saint Anthony of Padova…read more The church is beautiful. We were able to catch a liturgy while there and they had priest available to give blessings. As you walk through the church it is adorned with magnificent works of art. If you like you can also visit their museum and shops.

A beautiful cathedral featuring many historical relics. Came here while we were in Padua for an…read moreafternoon and spent a couple of hours here. It's free to enter. There's a few street parking spots that you pay via machine. No cameras are allowed. There's a museum where you can explore (for a fee). I suggest spending at least a couple of hours here to take in the beauty. There is a livestream of a certain section, which is delineated by signs. Holy water is sold here for 1.50 euros per bottle. The restroom is available for 0.5 euros. There is a souvenir shop.

This was literally one of the most spectacular sights I have seen in all my European adventures. It…read morerival the great works like the Ghent Alterpiece and St Peter's. It's a small chapel with a luminous fresco cycle painted by Giotto in the 14th century.. The main panels feature the lives of Christ and the Virgin Mary typical of religious art of the period. These are accompanied by smaller panels depicting the 12 vices and virtues. These panels are unique in their examination of good and evil and the means to achieve salvation through earthly deeds. Tickets MUST be purchased in advance and specify date and time. I advise arriving at least one half hour in advance to find parking (not convenient or easy) and making you way to the chapel. There is also a fascinating museum filled with centuries of art and treasures attached to the chapel. Allow at least 3 hours. If you are anywhere near Padua, this is an experience not to be missed!

This is definitely a highlight in Padova. My friend purchased tickets online and we came a little…read moreearlier than our scheduled entry time. We wandered around the courtyard of the museum until it was time to go in. We waited outside for our group's turn and entered the screening room. The chairs were spaced out. The film provided a good introduction to what we were about to see and the history of the chapel. The subtitles were in English. Once inside, we had just about the right amount of time to look at the walls in detail. I took photos with both my phone and camera, without flash. I think it is very cool that the first kiss in art history is in this chapel. I recommend a visit to see this historical work if you are in Padova.

This church is across the St. Marco Square. We took the ferry to Lido Island and discover a wedding…read morewas held here. It was a military wedding. It was beautiful to see it. It must a lucky guy can rent this church for the wedding. We were at the church next day after the Murano glass tour. We use the free time after the tour to visit this church. The church have the step to the entrance. It is perfect for the military wedding with the saw to be raised as gate. The church dome is beautiful. It is simple church which commissioned on the 15 century. Not many know about this church. The church has nice courtyard on the front overlooking the St. Mark Square. It make this perfect spot to see the square.