Duomo di Modena

If its official name is the metropolitan cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo and San Geminiano, the cathedral of Modena is known by this name among those who live in the city, of which this is the main place of worship. Consecrated in 1184, it has a Romanesque architectural style and in 1934 Pope Pius XI elevated it to the dignity of a minor basilica. Of particular value are the bas-reliefs on Genesis sculpted by Wiligelmo.

Dwarf galleries and blind arcades shape the image of the original Romanesque cathedral (laying of the foundation stone in 1099).

Since the 5th century, two churches had existed on the site of the present cathedral: the discovery of the burial site of Saint Geminianus, Modena's patron saint, led to the destruction of those churches and building of this cathedral by 1099. The initial design and direction was provided by an architect known as Lanfranco, little else is known about this architect. The Saint's remains are still exhibited in the cathedral's crypt. The present cathedral was consecrated by Pope Lucius III on July 12, 1184. (wikipedia)