Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Romanesque basilica in Bergamo's upper town — baptism and burial place of composer Donizetti.

The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the most distinguished churches in the upper town of Bergamo. Construction began in 1137 in Romanesque style but remained architecturally unfinished for centuries. Particularly notable is the northern transept facade with an elegant 14th-century porch. The interior impresses with rich tapestries and ceiling paintings. The church is closely tied to the life of composer Gaetano Donizetti, who was baptised and buried here. It is protected as an Italian National Monument.