Santo Stefano, Bologna

The Basilica of Santo Stefano in Bologna is an actually existing church complex of several buildings, one of the most evocative of the city. It is located at the same place and in everyday language also known as Sette Chiese ( Seven Churches ).

Tradition says St.. Petronius even have planned the church complex modeled on the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, and built on the ruins of a pagan temple to Isis. The church bears the title of minor Basilica.

What is certain is that the buildings have an ancient origin: the San Giovanni Battista or Santo Crucifix Church goes back to the 8th century, the Church of Santo Sepolcro ( holy grave ) maybe even on the 5th; It was renovated in the 12th century. In one of an altar surmounted with pent cell, the grave of St was. Petronius, Bishop of Bologna 431-450 and patron of the city. Recently, the relics were transferred to the Basilica of San Petronio.

The Church of Sts. Vitalis and Agricola in Arena dates back to the 5th century, but was restored in the 8th and the 12th century. It preserves the coffins of the two martyrs.

Through the Cortile di Pilato ( courtyard of Pilate ), actually a portico from the 13th century, one comes to the Chiesa della Trinita (Holy Trinity Church ) from the 13th century.

The number of reconstructions that were performed in 1880 and at the beginning of the 20th century, changed the shape of the old church complex profound and the original Seven Churches merged to four.

• Temple of the skull mountain in the church of Santo Sepolcro
• Courtyard with portico