Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Aosta
Edited by:
Massimo Martini
Access
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is located in the historical centre of Aosta, in Piazza Giovanni XXIII. Here are some useful directions for reaching it:
By Car
- Aosta is easily reached via the Turin-Aosta motorway. Leaving the motorway at the Aosta Est exit, follow the signs for the historic centre.
- Nearby car parks are available:
- Carrel car park (about 5 minutes' walk from the Cathedral).
- Piazza della Repubblica public car park (10 minutes' walk).
By Train
- Aosta railway station is about 15 minutes' walk from the Cathedral. From the station square, head towards the historic centre following the signs for Piazza Chanoux and Piazza Giovanni XXIII. Currently the railway is not in use due to electrification works on the line.
By Bus
- Several urban and extra-urban lines stop near the historic centre.
- The nearest stop is Piazza Chanoux, from where you can reach the Cathedral with a walk of about 5 minutes.
On Foot
- If you are already in the historic centre, the Cathedral is easily reached by following the signs for Piazza Giovanni XXIII. It is located in the immediate vicinity of the Roman Cryptoporticus.
Accessibility
- The Cathedral is located in a pedestrian area accessible on foot. It is advisable to check accessibility for people with disabilities by contacting the parish office or the tourist information point in Aosta.
Reaching the Cathedral is easy and pleasant, thanks to its central location and proximity to many other places of interest in the city.
Introduction
The cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Aosta is one of the most representative places of Aosta Valley history, culture and art. Located in the heart of the historic centre, this mother church of the Aosta diocese stands on an ancient early Christian complex dating back to the second half of the 4th century. The traces of this past are still visible, with the remains of a single nave, two baptisteries and an architectural context that complemented the Roman cryptoporticus, a symbol of the city's Roman heritage. The current structure, built from the 11th century onwards under Bishop Anselm, represents an evolution of Romanesque architecture in the Aosta Valley, inspired by the Ottonian complexes of the imperial area.
Description
The cathedral has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries, adding to its architectural and artistic charm. The two bell towers, dating back to the 11th century, flank the building, while the nave, vaulted with ribbed crosses in the 15th century, offers a sense of majesty. Extraordinary works of art can be admired inside, such as the large floor mosaic from the 12th century, depicting Christ as lord of time surrounded by roundels representing the months. The stained glass windows, added in the 16th century, and the wooden choir stalls, decorated with figures of saints and prophets, reflect the craftsmanship of the artisans of the time.
The neoclassical façade, completed between 1846 and 1848 to a design by architect Gayo, is one of the cathedral's most recognisable elements. Statues of the Assumption of the Virgin, St John the Baptist and St Grato, patron saint of the diocese, adorn the cornice, while the 16th-century portal is decorated with frescoes depicting the Nativity, the Annunciation and the Presentation in the Temple. These details give the cathedral a unique balance of different styles and periods.
The cloister, originally Romanesque and renovated in Gothic style in the 15th century, is an oasis of peace and recollection. Unfortunately, part of its structure was demolished in the 19th century to make room for the Rosary Chapel, but its charm remains intact, with capitals telling biblical and mythological stories.
Curiosities and treasures make the cathedral a must-see. The Treasury Museum, located in the deambulatory, exhibits masterpieces of Gothic goldsmithing, such as the reliquary case of St. Grato and processional staffs by Jean de Malines. Of particular note is the 5th century ivory diptych dedicated to the Emperor Honorius, a find of extraordinary historical and artistic importance.
The cathedral is also the guardian of legends and popular traditions. It is said that St Grato, the patron saint, brought back from the Holy Land the head of St John the Baptist, a reliquary still venerated by the faithful today. These tales, combined with the magnificence of the building and its long history, make Aosta Cathedral a place that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the past and appreciate the deep connection between art, spirituality and history.
Information
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, located in Piazza Giovanni XXIII in Aosta, is a historical and artistic jewel that deserves a thorough visit.
Opening Hours
The Cathedral is open every day at the following times:
- Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
- Afternoon: 15:00 - 19:00
What to See
Inside the Cathedral, visitors can admire:
- Frescoes in the Attic: Dating back to the 11th century, they are an important testimony to medieval art.
- Treasury Museum: Displays sacred objects and works of art of great historical and artistic value.
- Cloisters: A place of peace and reflection, with fascinating architecture and historical details.
Guided tours for these sites are available on Saturdays and Sundays from 15:00 to 17:30.
Related Events
The Cathedral regularly hosts liturgical celebrations and religious events.
One of the most significant events is the Feast of Our Lady of the Assumption, the Cathedral's patron saint, celebrated on 15 August with a solemn mass at 10:30 a.m. and vespers at 5:00 p.m.
For up-to-date information on events and celebrations, it is advisable to consult the Cathedral's official website or contact the parish office.