To honor the gods, to hold spectacular gladiator contests, to function as the seat of government - the buildings across Italy have served a variety of purposes. The magnetic pull of Italy’s buildings isn’t, however, just about their rich legacy and how they’ve stood the test of time. Tourists come in droves, with cameras and smartphones in hand, to stand in awe of the magnificence of every cathedral, colosseum, and palace. From the elegance of Florence to the grandiosity of Rome, Italy’s architecture celebrates the classical, Gothic, Romanesque, baroque, and Byzantine styles. On every façade, in each corner and from the bottom up, you’ll discover symmetry, flamboyance, and show-stopping qualities that are worth the long lines and crowds. Check out our list of the top famous buildings in Italy, that are worth a visit.
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1. Colosseum (from USD 53.85)
At 188 meters (617 ft) in length, 156 meters (512 ft) in width, and 57 meters (187 ft) in height, the Colosseum is colossal. The imposing structure was built between 70 and 80 AD, during the Flavian Dynasty. This is why initially it was called the Flavian Ampitheatre. It was changed to its current name when a statue of Nero, ‘The Colossus of Nero’, was erected at the entrance of the Domus Aurea, a palace built after the Fire of Rome.
The Colosseum held about 65,000 people at the time, and the massive amphitheater was used for gladiator fights, recreations of famous battles, theatrical productions, prisoner executions, and animal hunts. For more than 500 years, it remained in active use, with the final recorded games held in the 6th century. Today, the Colosseum holds the distinction as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and receives six million tourists annually. So, it gets awfully crowded, which means you’ll want to get here early or get a ticket that allows you to skip the long lines.
Rome: Colosseum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
Duration: 1 hour
2. Duomo di Milano (from USD 18.02)
One of the largest Catholic churches in the world, the Duomo di Milano can accommodate 40,000 people. Construction began in 1386, guided by the vision of Bishop Antonio da Saluzzo, and was supported by the ruler of Milan Gian Galeazzo Visconti. Both wanted a spectacular building, which they certainly accomplished. The Duomo di Milano is one of the more decadent churches in the world, with 700 figures, 3,400 statues, and an abundance of gargoyles. A good time to visit would be on a Monday after vespers because that’s when one of the nails used in the crucifixion of Jesus is exhibited.
Milan Cathedral and Rooftop Ticket
3. Sforzesco Castle
Located in Milan, the Sforzesco Castle Initially served as the fortress of the Visconti and turned into a home for the rulers of Milan: the Sforzas. It features massive courtyards, ducal rooms showcasing magnificent art, and a treasure room, among others. The family commissioned work from Leonardo da Vinci and Donato Bramante, turning the once fortress into a remarkable ducal palace. It was then used as a military complex during the four centuries of foreign occupation. Today, it houses an astonishing collection of fine art, including Michaelangelo’s last unfinished work: the Ronda Pieta.
Sforzesco Castle
Address: Piazza Castello, Milan, Italy
Website: Sforzesco Castle
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5:30pm (closed on Mon)
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4. Giotto's Bell Tower
The bell tower was named after its architect, Giotto, although he only worked on it for three years. After the well-known architect died, Andrea Pisano and Francesco Talenti, who designed the highest point of the tower, where you’ll have a great view of Florence, took over. There are 414 steps, and no elevators. So, those who have heart problems, claustrophobia, and vertigo are advised against climbing the Giotto’s.
In the tower’s many niches, you’ll find 16 life-size statues. These have been made by different artists, which includes Donatello. But, these statues are only copies; the real things are on display at the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo.
Giotto's Bell Tower
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Website: Giotto’s Bell Tower
Opening hours: Mon - Sun: 8:15am - 7:20pm
5. Duomo di Siena (from USD 207.52)
From the busts of religious men in the past to the intricate images on the floor, Duomo di Siena impresses wherever you look. The richness in detail and the abundance of masterpieces makes this Gothic building a must-see on your Italian journey. Deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was built between 1215 and 1263. It’s a veritable feast for the eyes from inside and out. The exterior and interior feature a striking greenish black-and-white marble in alternating stripes; black and white are symbolic colors of Siena.
Look down and marvel at the mosaic pavements, which tell a story in 56 etched and inlaid marble panels. At the center is Matteo di Giovani’s “Massacre of the Innocents”. At the entrance, you’ll find some of the oldest designs in the cathedral: “Wheel of Fortune” and the “Sienese Wolf Surrounded by Symbols of Allied Cities.” Don’t leave the cathedral without checking out Donatello’s St. John the Baptist and the remarkable Piccolomini Library, which features Pinturicchio frescoes of detailed landscapes , among other images, and an impressive ceiling in blue, gold, and red.
Siena: Duomo di Siena Private Guided Tour
Duration: 2 hour
6. St. Peter's Basilica (from USD 29.49)
Built according to the Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles, St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most crucial pilgrimage sites in the world. It is located in Vatican City, the seat of Catholic faith, and built on the burial site of Peter the Apostle. Inside, you’ll find works of art from Michaelangelo, who did the initial design of the magnificent dome and sculpted ‘The Pieta’. The church can accommodate about 20,000 people. When visiting, wear the appropriate attire - no shorts for men, and no bare shoulders or short skirts for women.
Rome: St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour
Duration: 1 hour
7. Pantheon (from USD 27.3)
Upon entry to the Pantheon, you may feel overwhelmed by the height of the dome and its roundness. The space is said to symbolize the vault of heaven and the dome’s shape, an intention to place all gods at an equal level of importance.
The Pantheon is one of the most preserved buildings and also one of the best places to visit in Rome. It’s also a testament to engineering and architecture. It was constructed between 118 and 125 AD as a replacement to the pantheon Marcus Agrippa, which was destroyed by fire in 80 AD. Although initially intended as a place of worship for the common, this architectural marvel also serves as a tomb for well-known figures. Renaissance painter Raphael and his fiancée are buried here, and so are Italian kings Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.
Discover Pantheon: Guided Tour of the Glory of Rome
Duration: 45 minute
8. Doge's Palace (from USD 30.58)
The Doge’s Palace is a landmark in Venice and served as the doge’s (the elected leader) official residence. It was built between the 10th and 11th centuries as a fortified central core. In the 12th century, it was turned into an elegant palace, and extensions were added in later centuries, including new prisons in the 17th century. Today, this masterpiece of Venetian Gothic is a museum with special tours that include the hidden treasures of the doge.
Venice: Doge's Palace Reserved Entry Admission Ticket
9. Leaning Tower of Pisa (from USD 42.0)
It’s not the only leaning bell tower in Italy; there is the bell tower at the church of St. Michele dei Scalzi, and another one at the church of St. Nicola. But the Leaning Tower of Pisa, with its musically-tuned seven bells, is certainly the most famous one. It forms part of a cathedral complex called the Field of Miracles, which features a baptistery, a cemetery, the bell tower, and the cathedral.
Construction of the tower began in 1173, and at that point, the structure began to lean. This was attributed to the soft ground, which began to shift, thus destabilizing the foundation. Construction was completed in 1300s. Over the next 800 years, the Tower of Pisa began to “fall” at a rate of one to two millimeters per year.
Leaning Tower of Pisa Afternoon Admission Ticket
Duration: 30 minutes
10. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (from USD 36.0)
Built in honor of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Virgin of the Flower, this magnificent work of ecclesiastical architecture went through several architects. It was initially designed by Arnolfo di Cambio right at the end of the 13th century and finished with Emilio de Fabris in the 19th century. The dome was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore was constructed where the 7th-century church of Santa Reparata was nestled. Its remains are seen in the crypt. As one of the largest churches in the world, the Cathedral features impressive frescoes. There’s one depicting the Last Judgment, and the other one shows scenes from the Divine Comedy. But don’t limit yourself to the artwork; take a look at the other features, from the mosaic pavements, which appear carpet-like, to the Paolo Uccelo clock, which was designed in 1443 and still works to this day.
Official Cathedral Tour With Exclusive Priority Entrance
Duration: 30 minutes
Visit Italy's finest buildings
Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations, so even when it’s low season, prepare to line up for some key attractions. The most famous buildings are likely to be crowded, even in the morning. You can skip the lines by choosing tour guides that give you easier access; you could also book your tickets in advance. Another thing to think about when visiting Italy’s famous buildings is to look up restrictions, from the dress code to the closed areas. Before you end your visit, be sure to check out the best wine tours and the most beautiful beaches in Italy!
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