Around the World - Famous Architecture in Italy

The magnetic pull of Italy's architecture is real, not only due to the rich legacy but also how it has withstood the test of time. People visit from around the world, coming in with cameras and a travel map in hand, to stand in amazement at the magnificence of every colosseum, palace, and cathedral. From the elegance in Florence to the grandeur of Rome, the architecture in Italy celebrates the Gothic, Classic, Baroque, Byzantine, and Romanesque styles. You’ll discover flamboyance and symmetric qualities worth standing for in long lines and crowds (but, here are some tips on avoiding crowds while traveling)

Here are 5 of the many famous architectural masterpieces from Italy:

The Colosseum

Rome, Italy

The imposing structure of the Colosseum was built between 70 and 80 AD, during the Flavian empire. The Colosseum held around 65,000 people, and the huge amphitheater had theatrical productions, gladiator fights, prisoner executions, animal hunts, and recreations of famous battles. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, and six million tourists visit it annually.

Duomo di Milano

Milan, Italy

Duomo di Milano is one of the largest Catholic churches globally, constructed and guided by the vision of Bishop Antonio da Saluzzo and was supported by Gian Galeazzo Visconti, the ruler of Milan. The Duomo di Milano has around 3,400 statues, 700 figures, and many gargoyles. Every Monday, the display of when one of the nails used in the crucifixion of Jesus is held.

 St. Peter’s Basilica

Vatican City, Rome, Italy

St. Peter’s Basilica is among the most crucial pilgrimage sites globally, built according to the Baroque and Renaissance architectural styles on the burial site of Peter the Apostle. It is located in Vatican City, which is the seat of the Catholic faith. 

Doge’s Palace

Venice, Italy

A landmark in Venice, the Doge’s Palace serves as the doge’s official residence, built between the 10th and 11th centuries. In the 12th century, it was turned into an elegant palace, and extensions were added later on. This masterpiece of Venetian Gothic is a museum today with special tours, including the hidden treasures of the doge. 

Tempietto del Bramante

Rome, Italy

Donato Bramante built a round, tiny temple that sits inside the courtyard of the church of San Pietro in Montorio in Rome, where St Peter was crucified. The Tempietto is known to be a masterpiece of High Renaissance Italian architecture and a St Peter’s Basilica prototype. 

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