The Basilica of San Domenico is a 13th-century church in Bologna, built to house the remains of Saint Dominic, founder of the Dominican Order. Inside, look for the marble Arca di San Domenico, decorated with sculptures by Nicola Pisano and Michelangelo, and the finely inlaid wooden choir stalls by Fra Damiano da Bergamo. The nearby Piazza San Domenico has medieval scholars’ tombs and a column topped by a statue of the saint. Restoration work can restrict access to some areas, so check for updates before you go.
The tomb of Saint Dominic
The basilica was built to house the remains of Saint Dominic, founder of the Dominican Order. He died in Bologna in 1221, and his remains rest in the Arca di San Domenico inside the church.
The marble shrine was completed over several centuries, with contributions from artists including Nicola Pisano, Niccolò dell’Arca and Michelangelo. Look for the angel on the right side of the tomb, one of Michelangelo’s sculptures. The shrine also includes work by Alfonso Lombardi.
Art and details inside
The chapel of Saint Dominic is among the church’s key places to see. Its decoration includes frescoes by Guido Reni and other Bolognese painters from the early 17th century. Access to parts of the chapel or presbytery can be affected by restoration work, so check for current information before your visit.
The wooden choir stalls, made by Fra Damiano da Bergamo, are another highlight. Their intricate inlay rewards a closer look. The church also contains sculptures by Nicola Pisano and other artists, along with chapels, altars and painted ceilings.
Piazza San Domenico
Outside the basilica, Piazza San Domenico is paved with river pebbles. A column bearing a statue of Saint Dominic stands in the square, alongside two medieval tombs raised on pillars beneath canopies. They commemorate the jurists Rolandino de’ Passaggeri and Egidio Foscherari.
The basilica and square sit a short walk from Piazza Maggiore. The church’s exterior is Romanesque, with a Gothic bell tower visible from the surrounding area.
Planning a respectful visit
San Domenico remains an active church, so cover your shoulders when entering. The current visiting schedule is shown on this page; check it before setting out, as access can change during restoration. The presbytery has an entry fee, according to the available visit information, but current ticket details are not provided here.
Preguntas frecuentes
Who is buried in the Basilica of San Domenico?
The basilica holds the remains of Saint Dominic, founder of the Dominican Order. They rest in the Arca di San Domenico.
What artworks should I look for inside?
See the sculptures on the Arca di San Domenico, including Michelangelo’s angel, and the inlaid wooden choir stalls by Fra Damiano da Bergamo.
Is there an entry fee?
The presbytery has an entry fee. Check current ticket details before visiting.
What should I wear to the basilica?
Cover your shoulders, as San Domenico is an active church.
