Cesena Cathedral 🇮🇹

Welcome to Cesena Cathedral, also known as the Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista, an intriguing Roman Catholic site in Cesena, Italy, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. Originally authorized by Pope Urban VI in 1378 and funded through the generosity of city lord Andrea Malatesta, this historic structure was constructed between 1385 and roughly 1405 under the Swiss architect Undervaldo. As you explore, you will discover a fascinating fusion of styles, featuring Romanesque-Gothic roots alongside a late 15th-century façade attributed to Venetian architect Mauro Coducci.

Be sure to admire the 15th-century campanile designed by Maso di Pietro and funded by Bishop Antonio Malatesta da Fossombrone, who also initiated the adjoining Bishop's Palace. Inside, you can see the surviving original eastern door remnant alongside remarkable artistic treasures. Marvel at the Altar of Saint John—a masterwork carved by Lombard sculptor Giovanni Battista Bregno da Osteno that preserves the mortal remains of Saint Maurus of Cesena—and look for a delicate Mannerist copper painting of Saint John by Livio Agresti.

Do not miss the Cappella della Madonna del Popolo, home to 1750 frescoes by Corrado Giaquinto and a historic painting personally crowned by Pope Pius VI in 1782.

What to see at Cesena Cathedral

• Marvel at the Renaissance Altar of Saint John by Giovanni Battista Bregno da Osteno containing Saint Maurus's remains.
• View the 1750 Corrado Giaquinto frescoes and the historic papal-crowned painting in the Cappella della Madonna del Popolo.
• Admire the late 15th-century façade attributed to Venetian architect Mauro Coducci and the 15th-century campanile. atmosphere.
• Explore the nearby Chapel of Saint Tobias, a Renaissance structure now serving as the cathedral museum.
• Spot the surviving original eastern door remnant and a Mannerist copper painting of Saint John by Livio Agresti.

Visiting tips

Be sure to stop by the neighboring Renaissance Chapel of Saint Tobias to check out the cathedral museum during your visit.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Cesena Cathedral is easy to reach on Cesena’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Biblioteca Malatestiana. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Cesena travel guide.