Basilica di Sant'Abbondio
A remarkably preserved 11th-century Romanesque basilica in Como, featuring twin bell towers, ancient frescoes, and a serene atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Experience peaceful serenity
Basilica di Sant'Abbondio
Best Time
Experience peaceful serenity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remarkably preserved 11th-century Romanesque basilica in Como, featuring twin bell towers, ancient frescoes, and a serene atmosphere.
"Incredible! Much more ancient than the grander Duomo, with beautiful, peaceful, and empty spaces."
✨ Peaceful & Empty
Visit on a weekday for a truly serene experience; often completely empty.
💡 Lighting the Art
Use the 50-cent coin slot to illuminate the altar and walls for a few minutes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Twin Bell Towers
Exterior
Iconic Romanesque twin bell towers stand proudly, a signature of this ancient church.
Romanesque Frescoes
Interior
Admire captivating 14th-century wall paintings that adorn the basilica's interior.
Five-Aisle Nave
Interior
Experience the striking, elongated five-nave structure, a key feature of its Romanesque design.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Discover Ancient Romanesque Art
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Peaceful & Empty
Visit on a weekday for a truly serene experience; often completely empty.
💡 Lighting the Art
Use the 50-cent coin slot to illuminate the altar and walls for a few minutes.
🚶 Off the Beaten Path
A beautiful, ancient church, less crowded than the Como Duomo.
🏛️ Romanesque Gem
Remarkably unaltered Romanesque construction, a rare find.
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Peaceful & Empty
Visit on a weekday for a truly serene experience; often completely empty.
💡 Lighting the Art
Use the 50-cent coin slot to illuminate the altar and walls for a few minutes.
🚶 Off the Beaten Path
A beautiful, ancient church, less crowded than the Como Duomo.
🏛️ Romanesque Gem
Remarkably unaltered Romanesque construction, a rare find.
☕ Nearby Refreshments
A quaint bar to the left offers friendly service and nearby facilities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Basilica di Sant'Abbondio for its remarkable preservation of Romanesque architecture and its serene, uncrowded atmosphere. Many appreciate the beautiful frescoes and the historical significance of the site, noting it as a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots. Some mention the convenience of nearby amenities and the option to light up the artwork for better viewing.
"It's a quiet little basilica tucked away in Como. We went there on a Monday and it was completely empty. There's no ticket or queue at all. The main ceiling and walls above the altar have nice frescoes. You can pop in 50 cents to light up the place for a few minutes and have a good look at the altar and it's walls."
Suparna Soman
"One word for this Basilica... incredible!
The Rev. Fr that walked us through the story of the basilica made it sound and look so lovely. I couldn't help but wonder how the love of God have greatly inspired the generation before us."
VIGIL UCHE
"Beautiful, peaceful snd completely empty. Much more ancient than the grander Duomo in the centre of Como. There’s beautiful artwork too."
Helen Flanagan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Basilica di Sant'Abbondio is located just outside the historic city walls of Como, about 1000 meters from the old town. You can easily walk there from the center, following the Via Regina. It's a pleasant stroll, and many visitors find it a refreshing escape from the busier tourist areas.
While specific parking details can vary, the area around the basilica is generally accessible. For visitors arriving by car, it's advisable to look for public parking options in the vicinity or in the nearby university campus area.
Information on specific bus routes is not readily available, but given its proximity to the city center, walking is the most recommended and straightforward method.
Yes, the Basilica di Sant'Abbondio is noted as a must-stop for those exploring Lake Como, offering a glimpse into historical architecture away from the main lakefront attractions.
Approaching the Basilica di Sant'Abbondio from the city center allows you to appreciate its historical context and the transition from urban life to this serene religious site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or queues required to enter the Basilica di Sant'Abbondio, making it easily accessible for spontaneous visits.
The Basilica is generally open for visitors, though specific hours can vary. It's best to check locally or visit during daylight hours for the best experience. Many visitors report finding it empty during weekdays.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Basilica di Sant'Abbondio. However, there is a small fee to light up the interior for a few minutes to better view the artwork.
The Basilica di Sant'Abbondio occasionally hosts events, such as concerts and prayer vigils. While these can add to the atmosphere, they might affect the typical quiet experience.
While generally accessible, it's always a good idea to be mindful of potential services or events that might temporarily restrict access to certain areas. Visiting during standard daytime hours is usually recommended.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Basilica is a prime example of Romanesque architecture, featuring a striking five-nave structure, twin bell towers, and a remarkably unaltered construction. Its aesthetic appeal is evident both from the exterior and interior.
Inside, you can admire beautiful 14th-century wall paintings and frescoes that adorn the main ceiling and walls above the altar.
Yes, it's considered the second oldest church in Como, built in the 11th century over an even older church. It's a significant example of Romanesque construction.
There are no toilet facilities directly at the Basilica. However, a quaint bar is located nearby to the left, offering helpful service.
The Basilica houses the relics of Saint Abbondio, a local bishop, and two of his successors, making it a site of local religious importance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the Basilica, allowing you to capture its stunning Romanesque architecture and frescoes.
The exterior, with its iconic twin bell towers, and the interior, showcasing the nave and the detailed frescoes, are prime spots for photography.
Information regarding drone photography is not specified, but it's always best to check local regulations and be respectful of the sacred nature of the site.
Morning light can be ideal for capturing the exterior details, while afternoon light might offer a softer illumination for interior shots, especially when using the lighting feature.
Yes, the recently restored courtyard adjacent to the church, now used by the university, also offers picturesque opportunities for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no specific child-focused amenities, the opportunity to light up the frescoes for a few minutes can be an engaging activity for younger visitors. The nearby bar offers a convenient spot for a quick snack or restroom break, making a visit more manageable for families.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
The ease of access, with no tickets or queues, makes it a spontaneous and stress-free visit. The ability to light up the artwork at your own pace allows for personal discovery. The nearby bar also offers a friendly spot to rest and perhaps chat with locals, enhancing the authentic experience.
🏛️ History & Art Enthusiasts
Guides often highlight its status as one of Como's oldest churches, emphasizing its architectural integrity. The chance to see the relics of local saints adds another layer of historical and religious significance. The ability to illuminate the artwork allows for detailed study and appreciation of the craftsmanship.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: Romanesque Style
Inside, visitors are greeted by a sense of historical grandeur. The interior artwork includes captivating frescoes and wall paintings that, while dating from the 14th century, beautifully complement the ancient structure. These artworks, particularly those above the altar, are a focal point for visitors. The basilica also holds the relics of Saint Abbondio, a local bishop, and two of his successors, adding to its religious and historical importance. The presence of these relics underscores the basilica's role as a significant religious site throughout history.
A Haven of Peace and Art
To enhance the viewing of the altar and its surrounding walls, a small fee can be paid to activate a lighting system for a few minutes. This feature allows visitors to better appreciate the details of the frescoes and artwork. The basilica is also a venue for various cultural events, including concerts and prayer vigils, which can add a unique dimension to a visit, though they may alter the typical quiet ambiance.
Beyond the basilica itself, the adjacent courtyard, recently restored and now part of the local university campus, offers a pleasant space to relax and reflect. Nearby, a quaint bar provides a convenient spot for refreshments and local interaction, with friendly owners often noted for their helpfulness.
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