The Cathedral of Saints Mariano and Giacomo: A Sacred Jewel in the Heart of Gubbio
The Cathedral of Saints Mariano and Giacomo, who were martyred in Constantina, Algeria, in 259 AD during the heavy persecutions by Valerian against the Christian creed, stands as the spiritual epicenter of the quaint Umbrian town of Gubbio, nestled on Mount Ingino. Originating from the 12th century and specifically constructed between 1194 and 1350 by Giovanni da Gubbio to replace a previous Romanesque church (traces of which remain on the right side), the cathedral is a monumental tribute to religious devotion that elegantly integrates itself into the urban fabric.
The architectural ensemble has a long history that has been passed down in excellent condition to the modern day, thanks in no small part to a series of thoughtful renovations, restorations, and subtle expansions primarily during the 16th century. Above the pointed arch entryway, which is accessed via a short staircase, a high circular window serves as a grand rose window, accentuated by intricate foliage designs imprinted on the glass.
It’s immediately apparent that the building is steeped in symbolism. Noteworthy emblems symbolizing the four Evangelists—John (the eagle), Luke (the ox), Mark (the lion), and Matthew (the angel)—capture your attention. St. John the Baptist embodies the symbol positioned at the center of the tympanum. This lavish façade sets the stage for an interior with a single Latin-cross nave that promises an awe-inspiring journey into the realm of the Gothic style, enveloping visitors in an overwhelming sense of awe and ecstasy.
Your gaze will naturally be drawn upward by the ten massive pointed arches that transect the interior to support the roof, while stunning light streams in from the magnificent stained-glass window of the apse. This cathedral is a treasure trove of dazzling beauty that seduces through the artistry of what remains of the side frescoes dating back to the 1300s, not to mention the still vivid Immaculate Conception by Virgilio Nucci, a 16th-century masterpiece.
Human ingenuity continues to impress, most notably in the extensive decorations by Francesco Allegrini in the Baroque chapel of the Holy Sacrament. These themes pay homage to the existential parables of saints Ubaldo, Pier Damiani, Rodolfo, and, of course, Mariano and Giacomo. Antonio Gherardi from Rieti painted the Birth of the Virgin in 1684, while the Pietà on the seventh span was the work of Dono Doni from Assisi.
In a room called the Chapter Hall, which houses an archive of ancient parchments and manuscripts, a striking gold-plated chasuble embroidered with scenes from the Passion catches the eye. Twin organs carved by Luca and Giacomo Maffei reside in the presbytery.
Adjacent to the cathedral, the Diocesan Museum, housed in the Canon’s Palace, holds an array of Roman and medieval stone works, along with a painting collection from the 13th, 14th, and 15th centuries. Visitors should not forget to marvel at a rustic curio on the ground floor—the Canon’s Barrel, constructed in the 16th century without the use of iron, capable of holding a whopping 200 hectoliters of wine.
Getting There
To reach Gubbio, you can either drive or take a bus along the E45 highway, exiting at Bosco-Gubbio if coming from the south or Umbertide if coming from the north. Another option is to take the SS3 Flaminia road, passing through Gualdo Tadino or Scheggia if coming from Marche.
Additional Notes
While the Cathedral of Saints Mariano and Giacomo is an architectural marvel with a rich history, what makes it truly exceptional is its ability to transport visitors into a realm of spiritual transcendence. The space manages to be both monumental and intimate, making it an essential stop for any visitor to Gubbio.
Visitor Information
Location: Via Federico da Montefeltro, Gubbio (PG)
Open Daily: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Mass Times: Sundays at 11:15 am
Entrance: Free
