Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Mark 🇮🇹

Located in the Piedmont region of Italy, the Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Mark (Duomo d'Alessandria) offers a captivating journey through centuries of resilience. Serving as the seat of the Bishop of Alessandria, this Roman Catholic cathedral presents a fascinating history for visitors exploring local heritage. The original 12th-century cathedral was rebuilt in the late 13th century, only to be demolished in 1803 under Napoleon Bonaparte's orders for military tactical reasons.

Following this destruction, the local religious community elevated the 13th-century Dominican church of St. Mark—which French troops had commandeered in 1797—into the city's new cathedral. As you visit, you will appreciate a grand Neo-classical structure that took shape through a total rebuild between 1807 and 1810, officially opening in December 1810.

You can admire the results of extensive historical works, including a major late-19th-century restoration that led to its official consecration in 1879. Inside, you will experience an interior shaped by survival; after suffering severe fire damage in 1925, the cathedral underwent significant refurbishment through 1929. Step inside to witness a remarkable testament to architectural renewal and faith that has endured centuries of conflict, changing rulers, and disaster.

What to see at Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Mark

• Historic seat of the Bishop of Alessandria in Piedmont, Italy
• Built on the site of a 13th-century Dominican church elevated after Napoleon's 1803 demolition of the original cathedral
• Elegant Neo-classical architectural style dating from its 1807-1810 rebuild
• Rich interior refurbished between 1925 and 1929 following a major fire

Visiting tips

Take time to reflect on the cathedral's eventful history, spanning its origins under Pope Alexander III to its resilient 19th-century rebuild after Napoleonic intervention.

How long: 1 hour · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Mark is easy to reach on Alessandria’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Alessandria travel guide.