Religious site
Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, Aquileia
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The Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta in Aquileia is a masterpiece of early Christian art and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors are greeted by an expansive floor mosaic dating back to the 4th century, covering over 700 square meters with intricate scenes from the Bible and nature. The basilica itself is a blend of architectural styles, having been rebuilt several times after earthquakes and invasions. As you walk through the nave, the vivid colors and detailed patterns of the mosaic, depicting Jonah and the whale, the Good Shepherd, and various animals, create a sense of stepping back in time. The adjacent crypt houses frescoes from the 9th century, and the bell tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding Friuli-Venezia Giulia countryside. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the historical weight of the site, makes it a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.
Don't miss
- 4th-century mosaic floor covering the entire nave
- 9th-century frescoes in the Crypt of the Excavations
- The bell tower with views over Aquileia
- The baptistery with its octagonal font
- The archaeological area beneath the basilica
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, Aquileia
You can visit Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, Aquileia on your own. A guide is worth it for the history and detail that is easy to walk past, and a tour can combine it with nearby sights.
Cheapest way inBasilica Santa Maria Maggiore : Guided Tour or Audio Guide4.2★ · 10 travelers1-2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$23 per personSee dates →
Most bookedBasilica Santa Croce: Walking Among the Masters of Florence4.9★ · 107 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$56 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Jubilee Tour: 3 Papal Basilicas with Santa Maria Maggiore5★ · 57 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$378 per personSee dates →More attractions in Aquileia