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Basilica of San Domenico
The basilica stands on a hill in the north of the historic centre, between Piazza San Domenico and Via della Sapienza. The Dominicans built it between 1226 and 1265 in the mendicant Gothic style and enlarged it in the 14th century. The façade is plain and is partly hidden by the Cappella delle Volte, a former oratory of the Dominican Third Order, so the entrance is on the left side. The Chapel of St Catherine of Siena keeps the saint's head and one of her thumbs on the central altar. Sodoma painted two scenes there, the Swoon and Ecstasy of St Catherine and the Death of Niccolò di Tuldo, and Francesco Vanni the exorcism. The 15th-century marble floor, with Orpheus and animals, is attributed to Francesco di Giorgio. The bell tower dates from 1340 and the crypt is medieval; the cloister is from 1425.
Add it to your trip on Wanloria →Things to do at Basilica of San Domenico: 4 missions
- Take in Saint Catherine's Swoon by SodomaIn the saint's chapel, look for the scene of Saint Catherine's Swoon and Ecstasy and that of the Death of Niccolò di Tuldo, both by Sodoma.
- Look for the relic of Saint Catherine's headEnter the saint's chapel and find the altar where her head is kept, inside the basilica.
- Find the marble floor with OrpheusLook at the floor of the chapel and find the 15th-century marble pavement, with Orpheus and the animals.
- Find the portrait of Saint Catherine in the Cappella delle VolteGo up to the chapel behind the façade and look for the portrait of the saint on the main wall.
Near Basilica of San Domenico
Frequently asked questions
How much time do you need for Basilica of San Domenico?
Allow about 45 min for the visit.