Cathedral of Viterbo

Viterbo Cathedral was built on the site of an early Christian church (287AD) and reflects the early martyrs of the Christian faith, as believers were killed for refuting the pagan Roman gods. It's nowhere near as ornate as later Catholic churches, but with simplicity also comes beauty, and the Nave is a place for quiet reflection and respect for the past.

A Majestic Symbol of Viterbo’s Soul The Cathedral of San Lorenzo is a place that truly leaves a mark. Perched on the highest point of Viterbo’s historic centre, this striking Romanesque cathedral, with its elegant Renaissance façade and soaring bell tower, is a masterpiece of solemnity and grace. By day, the cathedral’s understated beauty blends perfectly with the timeless charm of Piazza San Lorenzo. But by night — as seen in this photo — it becomes something truly special: illuminated with soft golden lights, casting long shadows across the square, exuding a quiet, almost mystical presence. Steeped in history, this cathedral once hosted papal coronations and remains a powerful testament to Viterbo’s medieval importance. Step inside and you’ll find a peaceful, contemplative interior, rich with centuries of faith, history, and resilience. Whether you’re religious or simply an admirer of architecture and history, this cathedral is a must-see. A moving, unforgettable stop on any visit to Viterbo.

A beautiful reminder of a period where Viterbo was the chosen seat and sanctuary of popes. It was peaceful and not at all busy when I visited so it was perfect for me. A single ticket allows you to visit the cathedral, the papal palace and the cathedral museum next door. There are also tourist audio guides which are great and allow you to listen to the commentary at your own pace.

a beautiful blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, offering a peaceful atmosphere perfect for quiet reflection. The tall columns, crafted arches, and subtle frescoes add to its charm.

The cathedral is very plain apart from a couple of the side chapels, as when it was restored after the second world War it primarily followed its medieval precedent, rather than its subsequent baroque developments, Definitely not the most beautiful church in Viterbo, if you're short on time or money.

The cathedral had a gorgeous ceiling although the building itself was surprisingly plain. There were the remains of some wall frescoes by the altar and one of the chapels had the best example of tromp l'oeil we'd ever seen. The bronze plated doors were impressive too. Entrance was included with the Papal Palace ticket next door.

The oldest records of the presence of a house of worship dedicated to St. Lawrence the Martyr on the present Cathedral Hill date back to the early Middle Ages. As early as 775 there is mention of a pieve of S. Laurentii and Petrus, its presbyter, and in a bull of Pope Leo IV (852) there still appears a reference to it. Full consecration, however, would come in 1192, the year Celestine III united Viterbo, Blera, Tuscania and Cencelle into a single diocese, insignifying the church with the title of Cathedral. Between the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, important interventions were planned on the layout of the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, which, however, remained unexpressed (Antonio da Sangallo). During the 16th century there were conspicuous interventions on the structure.

My wife and I stopped in Viterbo on our way from Florence to Tuscany. We saw the sights. Among them is the cathedral, which was used by the popes. Two were also buried here.