Flanked by two marble lions, the Cathedral of San Ciriaco sits proudly atop the hill called Colle Guasco. The site offers stunning vistas of the city and port below. Inside, discover relics from more than 1,000 years of history.
Note the mix of Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles on display at the cathedral. Built of gleaming white stone from nearby Conero, the cathedral was completed by 1015. Around the 13th century, the church was dedicated to Judas Cyriacus, the patron saint of Ancona.
A pair of red marble lions stand guard near the doors of the cathedral. Inside, note the church’s Greek cross floor plan. The main entrance looks down upon the harbor of Ancona.
Explore the airy arched interiors. In the northern transept, visit Madonna Chapel. Admire the opulent marble niche, designed by famed Italian architect Luigi Vanvitelli in 1739. The alcove houses a celebrated painting of Madonna del Duomo. Underneath the chapel, discover the crypt housing the remains of Saints Cyriacus, Liberius, Marcellinus and Palatia.
Don’t miss the Diocesan Museum adjacent to Cathedral of San Ciriaco in the compound that once housed the city’s bishops. As you stroll through the 18 rooms of this museum, which are organized in chronological order, explore centuries of the Christian history of Ancona. Examine the sculptures, scrolls, tapestries and other artifacts on display. Get a deeper understanding by joining a guided tour through the museum.
From the cathedral, you can walk to many of Ancona’s top sights. Wander down the hill along Piazza Anfiteatro and check out the ruins of Ancona’s Roman amphitheater, which is thought to have been built during the reign of Emperor Augustus.
Given its hilltop location, the Cathedral of San Ciriaco is particularly breathtaking at sunset. Time your visit so you can watch the sun sink below the horizon beyond the city and harbor.