The Cathedral
Last update: 15 February 2023, 11:26
WHERE: in Giovanni XXIII square.
HISTORY: Dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta and St. John the Baptist in the eleventh century, the Cathedral is the result of several stages of transformation started in the III-IV century, when a Roman complex was converted into a Christian place of worship.
Sacred building of impressive dimensions, a single nave with an apse, with a baptistery to the west and various outbuildings, one of which is intended as a secondary baptistery, it has several peculiarities of historical - architectural and artistic interest.
The crypt, which dates back to the early eleventh century, is divided into three naves. The columns are of different sizes, as the result of some recovery. Inside you can see the headstone of the grave of the bishops of Aosta Valley: "Sepulchrum episcoporum".
The space behind the apse houses the "Museum of the Treasure of the Cathedral", in which you can enjoy significant local artwork created between 1200 and 1700, all of the reliquary of Saint Gratus, the patron saint of the diocese of Valle d'Aosta.
To the eleventh century dates back the cycle of frescoes unearthed in the attic of the church. Together with those of the complex of St. Ursus , they make Aosta of the main centers of Ottonian art in Europe.
The high choir, dominated by a crucifix of the fourteenth century, has thirty wooden stalls dating from 1469 and depicting figures of prophets, apostles and saints, as well as coats of arms and names of different donors. On the floor there are two mosaics of the twelfth and fourteenth century, representing the months of the year and a series of real and imaginary animals along the rivers Tigris and Euphrates.
The Cathedral is finally characterized by the presence of two towers dating back to the early eleventh century, and for a cloister, located on the north side, which ended in 1460 (not currently open). Among its capitals, there are fifteen special, because you will read the names of the canons who financed the entire building.
HOURS:
From October to March: weekdays from 6:30 to 12, and from 15 to 19. Sundays and holidays: from 7 am to 12 am, and from 15 to 19.
From April to September: weekdays from 6:30 am to 12, and from 15 to 20. Sundays and holidays: from 7 to 12, and from 15 to 20.
The frescoes can be visited only during certain times of the year. For schedules and more information on the functions of the complex, you can visit this site.
ADMISSION: Free.
