Ferrara Cathedral (Duomo di Ferrara)

The Cattedrale di San Giorgio in Ferrara, known as the Duomo di Ferrara, was begun in 1135 under the direction of the sculptor-architect Nicholaus and continued over the following two centuries in a unique fusion of Romanesque and Gothic styles that distinguishes it from any other Italian cathedral. The triple-tiered marble facade facing Piazza Trento e Trieste features open arcaded loggias on each level, carved scenes of the Last Judgement and the months of the year on the central doorway, and the figure of San Giorgio above the main portal. The south flank of the cathedral, facing Piazza della Cattedrale, is particularly dramatic — a long arcade of Lombard-style blind arcading with rows of carved human and animal figures running at various heights. The interior was extensively remodelled in the 18th century in baroque style, largely obliterating the medieval interior; the most significant surviving medieval element is the crypt, which preserves the tomb of Nicholaus and a rare Romanesque carved capital frieze. The Cathedral Museum (Museo della Cattedrale), entered from the cathedral loggia on the south side, houses the cathedral's most important detached artefacts: two panels from the organ shutters painted by Cosmè Tura (1469), depicting San Giorgio slaying the dragon and the Annunciation; the carved marble St. Maurelius Tomb by Cristoforo da Firenze; and a collection of illuminated antiphonaries and Este court embroidered vestments. The museum ticket costs €6 for adults. The piazza outside — flanked by the Renaissance loggia shops of the Beccarie — is one of Ferrara's most animated public spaces and is free to enjoy at any hour.