Trieste Cathedral

Trieste, Italy

Trieste Cathedral (Basilica cattedrale di San Giusto Martire), dedicated to Saint Justus, is the seat of the Bishop of Trieste. The first religious edifice on the site was built in the 6th century, using part of the existing structure. Perhaps the entrance to a monument, this was commonly known as the Capitoline Temple, as a pyramidal altar with the symbols of the Capitoline Triad (Jupiter, Juno and Minerva) had been found inside it.

Of the hall there remains part of the mosaic floor, integrated into the present-day floor, which contains markings of the outer walls of the early Christian building. Soon after it was opened for worship, the church was destroyed in the Lombard invasion.

Between the 9th and 11th centuries, two basilicas were erected on the ruins of the old church, the first dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption and the second, the cathedral, to Saint Justus (San Giusto). The original design of the latter building was subsequently lengthened. In the 14th century the two basilicas were joined by means of the demolition of one nave of either basilica and the construction of a simple asymmetrical façade, dominated by a delicately worked Gothic rose window, as ornate as the new bell tower, using the Romanesque debris stones found on the site and friezes of arms.

The Chapel of Saint Charles Borromeo serves as the burial chapel for the family of the Carlist claimants to the throne of Spain. Among the works of historical interest in the cathedral are the apsidal mosaics depicting Our Lady of the Assumption and Saint Just, laid by master craftsmen from Veneto in the 12th-13th centuries. The small 14th-century church of San Giovanni on the left and San Michele al Carnale on the right, by the entrance to the museum, complete a fine medieval churchyard.

In the square in front of the church is an altar commemorating the consecration and laying down of the arms of the 3rd Army, a column with a halberd and a monument to those who died in the First World War.

Archaeological excavations carried out here in the 1930s laid bare the remains of the Roman forum and civic building constructed on two colonnaded floors with two apses. Two lower-floor columns have been reconstructed.

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Founded: 1320
Category: Religious sites in Italy

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4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Ian Tilley (11 months ago)
Thoroughly enjoyed the inside of the Cathedral. Multiple naves, old alongside new, it was fascinating. Totally recommend the visit.
Trash Panda Tactical (13 months ago)
The 13th century Cathedral is absolutly stunning. For its age, the well kept nature of the frescos and artefacts surpasses all expectations. We have seen 18th century churches and cathedrals in worse conditions. Have never seen anything like it, especially a cathedral with so many little chapels inside. Amazing, well worth the climb and visit. Almost looks like a movie set for a medieval fantasy film. A holy place rich with history, relics and color!
Andrea Brady (2 years ago)
Beautiful cathedral. Ancient mixed with the modern. Interesting use of nautical motifs eg in the sacristy. A nice cool spot at the top of the city.
Bruce Taylor (2 years ago)
San Giusto is the result of joining two churches together. Impressive interior with a large nave; two aisles on either side; 13th century Byzantine mosaics and a magnificent Gothic rose window. We stayed for mass officiated unusually by a young priest with a sense of humour!
Nikola Zemanová (2 years ago)
You can reach the church after a nice hike up the hill, but the view is worth it. Entrance to the tower costs €2 per person. In the tower you will find four large bells and a beautiful view. Parking is tricky and complicated, for experienced drivers only.
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