Modena - Duomo di Modena

In the center of Modena, where the Duomo di Modena (aka "Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e San Geminiano") is placed, churches have existed since the 5th century. After the burial site of Modena's patron Saint Geminianus, a former bishop (+397), was dicovered here, the existing cathedral seemed to small.

The first stone laying for the cathedral of today took place in May 1099, strongly supported by Matilde di Canossa (aka "Matilda of Tuscany"). First architect was Master Lanfranco, descibed as "maestro ingenio clarus [...] doctus et aptus".

The Duomo di Modena was consecrated in 1184, but the building process continued. It was finally completed in 1322.

The interior of the Duomo is divided into one nave and two aisles, the interior length is 63 metres. Below the risen presbyterium is the crypt, where since 1106 the remains of Saint Geminianus are kept.

Many small graffiti cover the pillars in the crypt. It must have taken some effort to carve in such a large cross and the initials. Below the letters is another small cross.