Sant'Emidio Cathedral
A historic Romanesque cathedral in Ascoli Piceno, featuring an atmospheric crypt and a masterpiece by Carlo Crivelli.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Sant'Emidio Cathedral
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Romanesque cathedral in Ascoli Piceno, featuring an atmospheric crypt and a masterpiece by Carlo Crivelli.
"Great crypt 10/10 would get buried here."
Don't Miss the Crypt
The crypt is a highlight! It's atmospheric and holds ancient stone coffins. 10/10 would get buried here! :coffin:
Admire Crivelli's Art
Look for the amazing polyptych by Carlo Crivelli on the right of the transept. It's a significant artistic treasure. :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Crypt
Below the main altar
Explore ancient stone coffins and a historic chapel in this atmospheric underground space. A must-see for history buffs!
Carlo Crivelli Polyptych
Right of the transept
Admire the stunning and intricate polyptych by the renowned artist Carlo Crivelli. A true masterpiece of Renaissance art.
Enormous Marble Columns
Main nave
Marvel at the sheer scale of the marble columns supporting the cathedral's roof, showcasing impressive Romanesque architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Earthquake Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Don't Miss the Crypt
The crypt is a highlight! It's atmospheric and holds ancient stone coffins. 10/10 would get buried here! :coffin:
Admire Crivelli's Art
Look for the amazing polyptych by Carlo Crivelli on the right of the transept. It's a significant artistic treasure. :art:
Check for Renovations
Parts might be under renovation due to past earthquakes, but it's still worth the visit. :construction:
Marvel at Columns
The enormous marble columns holding up the roof are truly impressive. :statueofliberty:
Tips
from all over the internet
Don't Miss the Crypt
The crypt is a highlight! It's atmospheric and holds ancient stone coffins. 10/10 would get buried here! :coffin:
Admire Crivelli's Art
Look for the amazing polyptych by Carlo Crivelli on the right of the transept. It's a significant artistic treasure. :art:
Check for Renovations
Parts might be under renovation due to past earthquakes, but it's still worth the visit. :construction:
Marvel at Columns
The enormous marble columns holding up the roof are truly impressive. :statueofliberty:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Sant'Emidio Cathedral to be a very atmospheric and historically significant site, particularly praising its unique crypt and the impressive Carlo Crivelli polyptych. While some parts may show signs of earthquake renovations, the overall experience is considered well worth the visit.
"Because of the cript bellow the main oltair I love this cathedral. You can see old stone coffins and before you get to them an old chapel. Cathedral was under renovations so some parts were not visible, but still worth it.
It was full hour when we left and you can see how big are church bells and how far out from the tower they go."
Rok Stražar
"A beautiful cathedral in the square. The marble columns were enormous holding up the roof. There was netting over the ceiling to protect people from stones falling down after the 2016 earthquake"
Helen Webb
"Beautiful cathedral but especially interesting is the amazing polyptych by Carlo Crivelli on the right of the transept. Interesting crypt as well with possibly reused columns"
Vincenzo Reale
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sant'Emidio Cathedral is located in the heart of Ascoli Piceno, easily accessible on foot from the main squares like Piazza del Popolo and Piazza Arringo. If arriving by car, look for public parking areas outside the historic center and enjoy a pleasant walk.
Ascoli Piceno's historic center, where the cathedral is located, is very walkable and best explored on foot. Many TikToks showcase the beauty of walking through its charming streets.
The cathedral is surrounded by Ascoli Piceno's stunning historic center, including Piazza del Popolo with its Renaissance palaces and Caffè Meletti, and Piazza Arringo.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main part of Sant'Emidio Cathedral is generally free, though donations are appreciated. Access to specific areas like the crypt might have a small fee.
Opening hours can vary, especially for the crypt. It's advisable to check locally or look for signs upon arrival. Many visitors find weekday mornings or late afternoons to be less crowded.
While the main cathedral is often free to enter, there might be a small fee for accessing the crypt, which many visitors find well worth it for its unique atmosphere and historical significance.
During religious services, access to certain areas might be restricted out of respect. It's best to plan your visit outside of mass times if you wish to explore freely.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Many visitors are struck by the enormous marble columns supporting the roof and the atmospheric crypt with its ancient stone coffins. The Carlo Crivelli polyptych is also a major highlight. +2
The crypt is one of the most historically significant parts of the cathedral, featuring ancient stone coffins and an old chapel, offering a glimpse into the past.
Following the 2016 earthquake, you might see netting over parts of the ceiling as a protective measure. This is a common sight in many historic buildings in the region.
The cathedral showcases Romanesque architecture, evident in its robust structure and the impressive marble columns.
Yes, the cathedral offers many photographic opportunities, from the grand interior architecture to the details of the artwork and the atmospheric crypt.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The cathedral is in Ascoli Piceno's historic center, surrounded by numerous trattorias and cafes. TikTok food tours highlight local specialties like Olive Ascolane.
Don't miss trying Olive Ascolane (stuffed and fried olives), a famous local delicacy. Other regional dishes are also highly recommended.
Yes, Piazza del Popolo, near the cathedral, has historic cafes like Caffè Meletti and several restaurants offering local cuisine with beautiful views.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the grand marble columns, the intricate details of the Carlo Crivelli polyptych, and the atmospheric crypt. The overall architecture provides many stunning angles. +1
Photography is generally allowed inside, but it's always respectful to check for any specific restrictions, especially during services. Avoid flash photography where it might be disruptive.
Late afternoons can offer beautiful lighting as the sun casts a warm glow on the interior. Weekday mornings are also good for fewer people in your shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the cathedral is a quiet place, so encourage respectful behavior. Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children more space to move and observe without disturbing others. The surrounding piazzas, like Piazza del Popolo, offer more open space for kids to run around after your visit.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond these highlights, the cathedral's Romanesque architecture, particularly the massive marble columns, speaks to its long and layered history. The ongoing presence of protective netting due to the 2016 earthquake also serves as a reminder of the region's seismic activity and the ongoing efforts to preserve these historic sites.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Crypt: A Journey Below
This underground chamber predates much of the current cathedral structure and provides a fascinating glimpse into the site's earlier history. The reuse of columns from even older structures adds another layer of historical intrigue. While some parts might have been affected by renovations after the 2016 earthquake, the crypt remains a compelling and memorable part of any visit.
Artistic Masterpieces: Carlo Crivelli
Crivelli was a prominent Venetian painter known for his distinctive style, often incorporating trompe-l'œil elements and rich ornamentation. The polyptych in Ascoli Piceno is a testament to his skill and a major draw for art enthusiasts visiting the cathedral. Its presence adds considerable cultural and historical value to the sacred space.
Architectural Grandeur: The Columns
These columns are a key element of the cathedral's Romanesque design, providing a sense of solidity and grandeur. They create a powerful visual impression as you walk through the nave, drawing the eye upwards and emphasizing the scale of the sacred space. The interplay of light and shadow on the marble further enhances their dramatic effect.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit