Como Cathedral

Visit Como Cathedral, the dome that dominates the Lake

Four hundred years to create a masterpiece: Como Cathedral is an extraordinary example of Como's mastery in creating wonders. The dome, completed in the 18th century, was designed by Filippo Juvarra.

Como Cathedral is the culmination of four centuries of work and stands out for its grandeur but above all for the harmonious fusion of various styles.

Built on an area that gradually became available with the demolition of part of the Broletto, the Palazzo Pretorio, and the church of Santa Maria Maggiore, it developed around this pre-Romanesque church, which was later demolished. During the long construction period, two dominant and well-blended styles emerged: the late Gothic of the façade (first half of the 15th century, early 16th century) and the Renaissance of the sides and external apses, which do not clash with the dome by the great Juvarra (1744). The superb marble façade was designed by Fiorino da Bontà from Como.
Some structures and most of the statues that adorn it are the work of the Rodari family from Maroggia. On either side of the main portal are the two statues of Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger, illustrious citizens of Como; these statues date back to the late Gothic period.
The interior is as stunning as the exterior of Como Cathedral: works of art of inestimable value, including tapestries, paintings, banners, marble and wooden sculptures, culminating in the polyptych of the altar of Sant'Abbondio, the work of a northern master from the early 16th century.

The wonder that fills your heart and brings a smile to your face is indescribable: reaching the cathedral square from the historic center is very simple, following the signs for the Cathedral, in the direction of the lake. You arrive at the square, astonishment overwhelms you, leaving you breathless before the imposing structure. Even more magical is admiring the city from above: ascending to Brunate, you can admire the city of Como from the panoramic viewpoint. From here, you can see how Como Cathedral has shaped the forms of the city that embraces it, protects it, and raises it like a king toward the sky and the waters of the lake.

Como Cathedral is open to visitors on weekdays from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM (except during services) and on holidays from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM (except during services).
Como Cathedral is a sacred place: respect this great church and those who are there in prayer by maintaining appropriate behavior, covering your shoulders during summer, and avoiding the use of flash photography and ringtones inside.