Basilica San Lorenzo Maggiore

This church is one of the most emblematic and fascinating places in the city, and is a must-see during your visit to Milan. Built in the 4th century, the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore is one of the oldest churches in the West and - according to some experts - the first to have a symmetrical plan. It was built at the end of the reign of Emperor Theodosius, in the late Roman (Dominated) Empire.

In medieval times it was enlarged and survived several fires and even an earthquake. This church was the head of the largest diocese of the Italian peninsula, and one of the most important economic centres of the entire Holy Roman Empire.

The reconstruction that began after the collapse of 1573 was not completed until 1894 with the completion of the façade. In 1934, on the occasion of the bimillenary of Emperor Augustus and under Fascist rule, the old houses attached to the Basilica were demolished, allowing the colonnade to be visually reincorporated into the temple complex.

San Lorenzo Maggiore is also known for its crypt, which houses the remains of saints and martyrs of early Christianity (early Christian period). In the crypt, there is also the Baptistery of San Giovanni alle Fonti, which dates back to the 4th century and is considered to be one of the oldest examples of Christian architecture in Italy.

Another curiosity of the basilica is its relationship with the Visconti family, one of the most powerful and influential in Italy in the Middle Ages for almost two centuries (1277-1447). The Visconti were the main patrons of this church and financed much of its enlargement and decoration.

Its dome rises to a height of over 60 metres and offers spectacular views of the city. From the top, you can admire the skyline of Milan and, on clear days, you can even see the Italian Alps.