Duomo Nuovo, Brescia

Basilica in Brescia

CC BY-SA 2.5 / Wolfgang Moroder

Towering over Brescia's historic centre, the Duomo Nuovo is one of the top attractions in Brescia and an unmissable landmark for anyone exploring the city's architectural and religious heritage. Its immense Baroque façade and majestic dome make it instantly recognisable, especially as it stands dramatically beside the smaller, older Romanesque Duomo Vecchio. Together, the two cathedrals form one of the most striking cathedral complexes in northern Italy.

Inside, the cathedral surprises visitors with soaring vaults, marble chapels, and exceptional artworks that span several centuries. This spot is one of the best places to see in Brescia for travellers drawn to religious architecture, and it is often visited on walking tours of Brescia that explore the adjoining piazzas, cathedral complex, and nearby Renaissance palaces.

History and Significance of Duomo Nuovo
Things to See and Do in Duomo Nuovo
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Duomo Nuovo
Where to Stay close to Duomo Nuovo
Is Duomo Nuovo Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Duomo Nuovo
Nearby Attractions to Duomo Nuovo

History and Significance of Duomo Nuovo

Construction of the Duomo Nuovo began in 1604 on the site of the early Christian basilica of San Pietro de Dom, which dated back to the 5th–6th centuries. Originally commissioned to Andrea Palladio, the project passed to architect Giovanni Battista Lantana after Palladio's death, with Pietro Maria Bagnadore assisting in the early stages. Work was disrupted by the plague of the 1630s and progressed slowly over the next two centuries.

The façade—completed much later—was designed by Giovanni Battista and Antonio Marchetti, blending bold Baroque forms with statues of the Virgin of the Assumption and Saints Peter, Paul, James, and John. The massive dome, completed in 1825 by Luigi Cagnola and rebuilt after World War II, rises to 80 metres, making it one of the tallest cathedral domes in Italy. The Duomo Nuovo stands today as a testament to Brescia's enduring religious devotion and its evolving architectural identity across three centuries.

Things to See and Do in Duomo Nuovo

Visitors entering the cathedral are greeted by a vast, luminous interior that houses artworks of exceptional importance. Look for the cycle of scenes from the life of the Virgin—Marriage, Visitation, and Birth—painted by Girolamo Romanino, one of Brescia's greatest Renaissance masters. Moretto da Brescia's powerful Sacrifice of Isaac stands out as another highlight.

In the left transept, the monument to Pope Paul VI, who was born in Brescia, honours one of the city's most significant historical figures. Sculpted by Raffaele Scorzelli in 1975, it is a modern addition that contrasts elegantly with the Baroque surroundings. Don't miss the views of the cathedral from outside, where the monumental façade dramatically overshadows the rounded form of the Romanesque Duomo Vecchio next door.

How to Get There

The Duomo Nuovo stands on Piazza Paolo VI and is easily reached on foot from Brescia's major landmarks and pedestrian streets. The Brescia Metro stop Vittoria or San Faustino provides quick access from other areas of the city Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.. Visitors arriving by car can use parking areas around the edges of the historic centre before walking into the piazza If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.. Travellers flying into airports such as Milan Bergamo or Verona can continue to Brescia by regional train connections For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to on Booking.com..

Practical Tips on Visiting Duomo Nuovo

Best time to visit Duomo Nuovo: Morning or late afternoon for soft light on the façade.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free.
Opening hours: Typically open daily; hours may vary during services.
Official website: Check the Diocese of Brescia for updated schedules.
How long to spend: 20–40 minutes, more if exploring artworks.
Accessibility: Accessible entrances available; interior largely flat.
Facilities: Cafés and services available around Piazza Paolo VI.
Photography tip: Capture the dramatic contrast between Duomo Nuovo and the circular Duomo Vecchio.
Guided tours: Often included in cathedral district tours.
Nearby food options: Trattorias and cafés surrounding Piazza Paolo VI.

Where to Stay close to Duomo Nuovo

Staying near the Duomo Nuovo places you in the heart of Brescia's historic centre. A refined option close by is Hotel Vittoria, ideal for exploring the major piazzas. For boutique charm, consider Albergo Orologio, situated in a quiet, elegant street. A peaceful alternative is Centro Paolo VI, offering historic surroundings within walking distance of the cathedral. Travellers preferring modern amenities may enjoy AC Hotel Brescia.

Is Duomo Nuovo Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Duomo Nuovo is one of the must-see places in Brescia, offering a magnificent example of Baroque architecture crowned with one of Italy's tallest domes. Whether you visit for the artworks, the spiritual atmosphere, or the architectural contrasts with the Duomo Vecchio, the cathedral is a highlight of any cultural itinerary.

FAQs for Visiting Duomo Nuovo

When was the Duomo Nuovo built?
Construction began in 1604 and continued intermittently until the 19th century.

How tall is the dome?
The dome reaches 80 metres, making it one of Italy's tallest cathedral domes.

Is the Duomo Nuovo connected to the Duomo Vecchio?
They stand side by side, forming a unique cathedral complex.

What artworks are inside?
Works by Romanino, Moretto da Brescia, and a modern monument to Pope Paul VI.

Can visitors enter for free?
Yes, entry is free, though restricted during religious services.

Nearby Attractions to Duomo Nuovo

Duomo Vecchio: The ancient circular Romanesque cathedral beside the Duomo Nuovo.
Piazza Paolo VI: Historic square lined with palaces and cafés.
Santa Giulia Museum: Monastic museum with Roman houses and medieval treasures.
Piazza della Loggia: Renaissance square ideal for walking and dining.
Brixia Archaeological Park: UNESCO-listed Roman temples and theatre on Via Musei.

The Duomo Nuovo appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Brescia!

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