Duomo di Savona (Savona Cathedral), Savona (must see)

The Cathedral of the Assumption (Savona Cathedral) stands as the religious and historical heart of Savona. Located in the city’s historic center, it forms part of the Duomo monumental complex, which also includes the Cappella Sistina (Sistine Chapel), the Museo del Tesoro (Treasure Museum), and the apartment of Pope Pius VII. Built on the site of a 13th-century Franciscan complex, the cathedral was later transformed into a magnificent Baroque structure, showcasing an array of artistic and religious treasures.

Among its most notable works are a 15th-century baptistry, an unusual two-sided marble crucifix attributed to Giovanni Angelo Molinari, and an expressive wooden sculpture of Christ crowned with thorns, a masterpiece by Anton Maria Maragliano, originally housed in the Church of Santa Lucia.

The cathedral's interior is a striking blend of grandeur and historical continuity. The vaults and pillars, adorned between 1848 and 1851, feature the artistry of Michele Canzio, Giuseppe Bozzano, and Francesco Coghetti. Meanwhile, the side chapels preserve their 17th- and 18th-century decorations, adding to the cathedral’s layered aesthetic. A highlight of the presbytery is the impressive wooden choir stalls, crafted during the Renaissance under the direction of Giuliano Della Rovere, the future Pope Julius II.

Unlike traditional Counter-Reformation church designs, which often emphasized symmetry and strict formality, this cathedral adopts a layout with a central nave and two aisles, creating a sense of openness while maintaining its imposing and solemn atmosphere.