Fidenza Cathedral

Dating back to the twelfth century, Fidenza Cathedral is a magnificent example of Romanesque style, with both Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements to its interior.

The structure was developed from a Martyrium, a small church erected in the fourth century AD, which was then extended over the years at the request of Theodelinda, Queen of the Lombards, Charlemagne and Roman Emperor Frederick I, who granted the Cathedral the status of Imperial Church in 1162. The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Domninus, whose remains it houses. A frieze running over the building’s main portal depicts the story of the Saint from his escape from the Emperor Maximian to his martyrdom and the first miracle in Fidenza. The history of Fidenza and its patron saint are deeply intertwined.