Basilica of San Domenico

The Basilica of San Domenico is currently under restoration, so you won’t see the full interior. However, the chapel of St. Dominic is open, and that alone makes the visit worthwhile. Here you’ll find the saint’s sarcophagus and a beautifully decorated Baroque ensemble with painted ceilings and intricate wall details. It’s about a 10-15 minute walk from the city center, easy to reach and not crowded. I even met a local priest giving explanations in Italian to a small group: if you understand the language, that adds an authentic touch. This place is best for those exploring Bologna’s cultural and religious heritage. Believers will appreciate the spiritual significance, while art lovers will enjoy the artistry and Baroque decoration. ⚠️ Practical note: no clear info on how long the restoration will last, so don’t expect to see the basilica in its full scale at the moment.

The Basilica di San Domenico in Bologna is a serene and awe-inspiring place filled with history and artistry. The highlight is the exquisite Ark of Saint Dominic, adorned with sculptures by Michelangelo and other masters. The atmosphere feels peaceful and deeply spiritual, with stunning frescoes and elegant architecture. It’s less crowded than other major sites, allowing time to admire every detail. A must-visit for art and history lovers.

Interesting spot with a lot of history dating back to the 13th century. The Basilica of San Domenico holds a calm atmosphere, with artwork and sculptures that reflect Bologna’s medieval past. It's also the resting place of Saint Dominic, the founder of the Dominican Order, which makes it significant if you're into historical figures. The tomb, crafted by some famous Renaissance artists, is impressive up close. Definitely worth a visit if you’re into history or art and want a quiet break in the city. No entry fee.

One of the best known Bolognese churches with the remains of the saint that died in Bologna in 1221 and are placed inside a marble Arc. Also one of the richest in art history. There are a lot of work on it by famous Italian sculpture artists including three by Michelangelo Buonarotti in 1495. There's a wooden choir of Fra masterpiece of Renaissance inlay Damiano da Bergamo, defined by contemporaries as the eighth wonder of the world. which you need to walk through the museum to get too and is one of most beautiful wooden crafts I have seen. Outside in the square of San Domenico is the column of the saint, and the square is paved in small pebbles like it was in the medieval times. Also on the far end of the square are two more tombs with one of the them from the 9th century. The bell tower is 53 metres high in 13th century Gothic style. You can easily spent two to three hours there to see everything.

The basilica is Romanic architecture from the 13th century, The remains of saint Dominic are kept inside, he was a founder of Order of preachers. Even Michelangelo was doing some work inside. Saint's remains are in the main chapel inside. Some nice art is kept here too.

Absolutely gorgeous romanic church in Bologna, way less crowded and frequented than San Petronio downtown. We came for the Michelangelo statue, but that was just alright (no David, alas). We stayed for the lovely cloister that sits on the side of the church (pictures attached). It's not very clear how to get there so make sure you check directions or ask attendants.

One of the most important churches in Bologna with a spacious square that bears the same name. Interesting monuments on the square.

This church was a most pleasant surprise. I knew St. Dominic died in Bologna, but I didnt know his remains are here, and available for veneration! To pray the Rosary here was like praying the Rosary with St. Dominic, who loved Our Lady's Rosary.

About a 10 minute walk south from Piazza Maggiore and Basilica di San Petronio is this smaller yet no less impressive basilica, dedicated to San Domenico (Saint Dominic), who was the founder of the Dominican order. His tomb lies inside this church. While I knew pretty much nothing about the Dominican order other than having heard they were an order of the Catholic Church, it's interesting after some googling to learn that they were a more intellectual, educational branch focused on religious teachings in a practical context. In any case, visiting this building was quite simple, entrance is free (donations suggested) and early April on a weekday afternoon there was basically no one else save a couple clergy, a few people from a construction team working on setting up for an event, and a handful of curious tourists like me wandering around inside. The red and white colors of the city are prevalent in the decor of the nave columns covered with a deep red floral jacquard pattern. I thought it was unique in that the altar areas located in the side transepts (according to google these are the "arms" or transverse aisle crossing the main nave creating the form of a cross) were much more elaborate than the main altarpiece in the central area. Some masterful paintings well-maintained too. Quiet location for some solace and meditation.