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Church · Perúgia, Úmbria
Basilica di San Pietro
Benedictine abbey founded around the year 1000, with a 70-metre bell tower, an interior covered in paintings and a carved wooden choir. Behind it there is a medieval garden.
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 Basilica di San Pietro
The Basilica di San Pietro is in the Borgo XX Giugno, at the southern tip of Perúgia, outside the old town. The Benedictine abbey was founded around the year 1000 by Pietro Vincioli, a Perugian noble later declared a saint, on an older sacred site. The pointed bell tower, about 70 metres high, is visible from many parts of the city.
The interior surprises those who see the discreet façade. The three naves are covered with paintings, with large canvases by Antonio Vassilacchi, known as Aliense, along the central nave, and works by Perugino, Guercino and other artists in the chapels and the sacristy.
The wooden choir, carved and inlaid in the 16th century, is one of the most elaborate pieces of Renaissance woodworking in Italy. Through the back door of the choir, a balcony looks out over the valley and to Assis.
The monastery today houses the university's faculty of agronomy. Beside it is the Orto Medievale, a garden that recreates the monks' symbolic garden, with plants mentioned in medieval texts.
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
About 45 minutes for the church; one hour including the Orto Medievale.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon, outside mass hours. The view from the back of the choir is better in dry weather.
How to get there
It is in the Borgo XX Giugno, about 1 kilometre south of the Piazza IV Novembre. On foot, follow the Corso Cavour to the Porta San Pietro and continue straight on for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Tip
Entrance to the church is free. On the way, stop at the Basilica di San Domenico, which has the Museo Archeologico Nazionale dell'Umbria next to it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Basilica di San Pietro
What to see in the Basilica di San Pietro?
The paintings that cover the naves, the 16th-century carved wooden choir, the view from the balcony behind the choir, and the Orto Medievale.
Is it far from the center?
About 1 kilometer south of Piazza IV Novembre, 15 to 20 minutes on foot, downhill on the way there.
Is there an admission fee?
In the church, no. Respect the times of services.