Basilica of St. Stephen

The Basilica of Santo Stefano in Bologna, commonly known as the complex of the “Seven Churches,” is one of the most fascinating and historically rich places in the city. Located in Piazza Santo Stefano, this basilica is not a single building but a complex of intertwined religious buildings that offer a unique overview of the history and architecture of Bologna. The origins of the complex are shrouded in mystery and legends. According to tradition, it was Bishop Petronio, the patron saint of Bologna, who wanted to build a complex that reproduced the places of Christ’s Passion in Jerusalem after a trip to the Holy Land. The Church of the Crucifix is the starting point of this spiritual journey. Built by the Lombards in the 7th century, the church features austere architecture that reflects simple yet profound devotion. Inside, there is a crucifix from the 1300s by Simone dei Crocifissi and a sculpture of the Lamentation over the Dead Christ, inviting visitors to reflect and pray. Continuing on, you reach the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, built in the 5th century on top of an ancient temple dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis. This church is designed to reproduce the place of Christ’s burial and features an octagonal plan dominated by a large central pulpit. During the Middle Ages, this church was the center of important rituals, such as the path of pregnant women who walked 33 laps around the tomb to ask for protection and blessing. The Church of Saints Vitale and Agricola is the oldest in the complex and houses the relics of the two saints, martyrs of the 3rd century. Inside, you can admire remains of Roman mosaics and two medieval sarcophagi decorated with animal figures. This church is a perfect example of how the complex of Santo Stefano is a crossroads of different styles and influences, ranging from Roman times to Christian medieval times. The Courtyard of Pilate, which connects the various churches of the complex, is so named to recall the place where Jesus was condemned. At the center of the courtyard is a Lombard basin dating back to the 8th century, giving the place an atmosphere of solemnity and reflection. The courtyard is surrounded by Romanesque arcades with cross-shaped brick columns, testifying to the historical and architectural stratification of the complex. One of the most interesting elements of the complex is the presence of a column in black cipollino marble, of African origin and dating back to Roman times, symbolizing the column of Christ’s flagellation. This detail, along with the seven Greek marble columns from Karistos, suggests that the area was originally a temple dedicated to Isis, confirming the sacred continuity of the place through the centuries. The museum of the Basilica of Santo Stefano, located in the ancient refectory of the Benedictine monastery, houses a vast collection of artworks and sacred objects. Among the most important pieces are works by Jacopo di Paolo, Vitale da Bologna, and Lippo di Dalmasio, as well as a precious reliquary containing the head of Saint Petronio, made by Jacopo Roseto in 1380. Over the centuries, the complex of Santo Stefano has undergone numerous transformations and restorations, enriching its structure and historical importance. During the 19th century, the complex underwent significant restoration interventions that brought to light many of the ancient architectural and artistic splendors, while maintaining the historical integrity of the place.