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Church · Bolzano, Trentino-Alto Ádige
Chiesa dei Domenicani
Gothic church of the Dominican friars, from the late 13th century, with the Cappella di San Giovanni covered in frescoes from the school of Giotto and an altarpiece by Guercino.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Chiesa dei Domenicani
The Chiesa dei Domenicani was founded by Dominican friars who arrived in Bolzano in the 13th century, on land then outside the town walls. The first church was completed in 1272 and was rebuilt in the early 14th century, becoming one of the earliest examples of Gothic architecture in the Tyrol.
The highlight is the Cappella di San Giovanni, to the right of the altar. The walls feature a cycle of frescoes from the first half of the 14th century, painted by artists of the school of Giotto, with stories of St John, of Mary and of St Nicholas. One of the more memorable scenes shows one of the Horsemen of the Apocalypse, with sinners beneath.
At the back of the apse is the Vision of Soriano, an altarpiece painted by Guercino in 1655. Through the cloister you reach the Cappella di Santa Caterina, with other Gothic frescoes. The church was hit by bombs in World War II and restored.
It is a church in use: visit outside Mass times, with shoulders and knees covered.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon, outside Mass times, when the chapel has better light and fewer visitors.
How to get there
Piazza Domenicani, two blocks west of Piazza Walther, in central Bolzano.
Tip
Head straight to the Cappella di San Giovanni and allow time for the details of the frescoes. If the cloister is open, also go in to see the Cappella di Santa Caterina.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Chiesa dei Domenicani
What's special about the Chiesa dei Domenicani?
The 14th-century frescoes in the Cappella di San Giovanni, painted by artists of Giotto's school, rare so far north in Italy.
Is it far from Piazza Walther?
No. It’s about a 3-minute walk to the west.
Is there work by any well-known painter?
Yes. At the back of the apse is the Vision of Soriano, an altarpiece by Guercino from 1655.