The Basilica San Pietro is a beautiful 10th-century Benedictine church and abbey built on the site of an ancient cathedral. Inside view a rich collection of frescoes that are hundreds of years old. Outside is a medieval garden, where monks once cultivated vegetables and medicinal plants.
Step into the main courtyard and gaze up at the tall polygonal bell tower, which was constructed in the 13th century. Before going into the church look over the frescoes on its façade. Local artists painted these in the 14th century.
Stroll through the church interior, with three naves divided by columns that came from Roman buildings dating from the 3rd and 4th centuries. View the many religious paintings that line the walls and the area behind the altar. Among them are depictions of the Life of Christ by the Greek artist Antonio Vassilacchi.
Marvel at the craftsmanship of the 16th-century wooden choir. Go to the sacristy to browse paintings by the Italian Renaissance painter Perugino. Stop at the Vibi chapel on the left side of the basilica, dedicated to the Body of Christ. See the 16th-century murals and interesting grotesques.
Bring a picnic with you and enjoy it in the basilica’s medieval garden. The tranquil space is rich with religious and cosmic symbolism. Its flowerbeds represent the seven planets that were known in the medieval world. Look for a symbolic reproduction of the Garden of Eden.
The garden is also home to a reconstruction of the old monastic garden, which features types of medicinal plants that were once used by monks to treat illnesses. As you walk toward the garden's exit, pass through the old gate, believed to have been built in the 13th century.
The ancient church is located in the village of San Pietro in Perugia. Arrive by public transportation or drive and park nearby in the free or paid parking areas.
The Basilica San Pietro is open every day, but closes for a few hours in the afternoon. Visit the garden at any time throughout the day. Bring a flashlight for best viewing of the art in dark corners.
