The Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como) is the most iconic monument in the city of Como, located in the heart of the Piazza Duomo, the main square. It’s one of the finest examples of religious architecture in northern Italy, attracting visitors with its stunning design and historic importance.
Centuries of Construction and Mixed Styles
Construction of the cathedral began in 1396 and wasn’t completed until the 18th century, taking almost four hundred years. Because of this long timeline, the cathedral displays a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Rococo styles, each layer reflecting a different architectural era.
A Rococo Dome by Filippo Juvara
The crowning feature of Como Cathedral is its magnificent dome, added in the 18th century by architect Filippo Juvara. Designed in Rococo style, the dome adds lightness and elegance to the structure and stands as one of its most distinctive elements.
A Renaissance Interior Rich with Art
Inside the cathedral, visitors are welcomed by impressive Renaissance-style interiors, featuring large tapestries, religious paintings by artists such as Bernardino Luini and Gaudenzio Ferrari, and finely crafted statues by the Rodari family.
Striking Façade and Famous Statues
The cathedral’s façade is richly decorated with intricate sculptures and stonework. Among its many statues are figures of Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger, two renowned Roman scholars who were born in Como. These tributes link the cathedral closely to the city’s deep historical roots.
A Must-See in the Heart of Como
Located just steps from the lake and surrounded by cafes and shops, the Duomo is a central part of any visit to Como. If you admire it from the outside or explore its richly decorated interior, Como Cathedral offers a unique journey through Italian history and architecture.