Orvieto Cathedral travel guide

The Orvieto Cathedral, known as Duomo di Orvieto in Italian, is a stunning masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its construction began in 1290 under Pope Nicholas IV's orders, aiming to provide a suitable home for the Corporal of Bolsena, a miracle relic.

The project was directed by several architects, starting with Fra Bevignate from Perugia. The cathedral's façade, a breathtaking work of art, was added later in the 14th century, demonstrating the transition from Romanesque to Gothic style.

The cathedral's interior is equally impressive, adorned with frescoes by famous artists, including Luca Signorelli's 'The Last Judgment.' Despite several changes and additions over the centuries, Orvieto Cathedral has maintained its original design.

Today, this historical and architectural gem continues to captivate visitors with its intricate façade, rich interior, and deeply rooted history. A visit to Orvieto Cathedral is a journey back in time, providing a glimpse into the artistic and religious history of Italy.

One of the defining features of Orvieto Cathedral is its facade, a magnificent display of Italian Gothic architecture. The facade is adorned with a myriad of mosaics, bas-reliefs, and statues, each intricately designed and depicting various Biblical scenes. A particular highlight is the large rose window, a masterpiece of fourteenth-century art.

Another remarkable feature is the Chapel of San Brizio, famed for its Renaissance frescoes. These frescoes, painted by Luca Signorelli, are hailed as one of the greatest masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance, showcasing vivid depictions of The Last Judgement and The Resurrection.

The cathedral is also distinguished by its striped design. The structure of the cathedral alternates between layers of white travertine and basalt stone, giving it a striking and unique black and white striped appearance.

Lastly, the cathedral houses one of the most important Christian relics, the Corporal of Bolsena, a cloth said to have been stained with the blood of Christ during a Eucharistic miracle in the 13th century. This relic is housed in the Chapel of the Corporal, which is adorned with captivating frescoes that narrate the story of the miracle.

Located in the dynamic Orvieto, the popular Orvieto Cathedral is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Orvieto or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Italy.

Orvieto is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Orvieto offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Orvieto and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Orvieto Underground, Pozzo della Cava, Torre del Moro Orvieto, and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo di Orvieto.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Orvieto has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Orvieto, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Orvieto Cathedral is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Orvieto, Italy. If you're flying in, San Francesco d Assisi Airport is approximately 33.1 miles (53.2 km) away from Orvieto. From there, you can easily reach Orvieto Cathedral by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Orvieto, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Orvieto Cathedral, which is located 0.3 miles (0.4 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Orvieto Cathedral, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Piazza del Duomo, 26, 05018 Orvieto TR, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Orvieto Cathedral!

The best time to explore Orvieto Cathedral is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September and October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Visiting during these months allows you to enjoy the stunning architecture and intricate frescoes of the cathedral without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season. Notably, the Umbria Jazz Festival in early July, although busy, offers a unique experience with the cathedral providing a spectacular backdrop for the musical performances. However, remember that the cathedral can be crowded during special religious events or festivals, so plan your visit accordingly. The cathedral is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the morning when the sunlight illuminates the interior, casting a magical glow on the art and architecture. As the day progresses, the cathedral can become busier, so an early visit ensures a more peaceful exploration. Regardless of when you visit, Orvieto Cathedral promises an unforgettable experience.

To truly enjoy your visit to Orvieto Cathedral, joining a tour that features this popular Catholic cathedral in Orvieto is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Orvieto Cathedral draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Orvieto Cathedral starting at just 70 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Orvieto Cathedral and other top attractions in Orvieto than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Orvieto include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Orvieto Cathedral's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Orvieto Cathedral and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind Catholic cathedral in Italy.

Conveniently explore Orvieto Cathedral and plenty more captivating attractions in Orvieto by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Orvieto Cathedral and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Orvieto has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Orvieto Cathedral below.

Aside from Orvieto Cathedral, Orvieto is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Orvieto, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Orvieto Underground, Pozzo della Cava, and Torre del Moro Orvieto.

Orvieto Underground is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Orvieto, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,500 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Orvieto Underground is Piazza del Duomo, 23, 05018 Orvieto TR, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Orvieto is Pozzo della Cava. Like Orvieto Underground, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 1,400 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Via della Cava, 28, 05018 Orvieto TR, Italy.

Torre del Moro Orvieto is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Orvieto. This establishment and top attraction in Orvieto has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 740 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Corso Cavour, n° 87, 05018 Orvieto TR, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Orvieto below.