Known as the square of the two Cathedrals of Brescia, Piazza Paolo VI is a magnificent example of medieval architecture and represents the heart of the city for the important historical buildings that overlook it, symbols of civil liberties and religious traditions of Brescia.
On the east side of the square we find the Palazzo del Broletto, including the civic tower and the loggia delle grida. It is the oldest public building in the city, seat of the civic magistrates in the municipal age, and occupies an entire block with a central courtyard built in various phases, from the Middle Ages to the 17th century, when the solemn northern portico was built.
On the same side of the Broletto, the Duomo Vecchio and the Duomo Nuovo stand out in all their beauty.
Brescia Cathedral, the Duomo Nuovo (1604-1825) stands on an ancient paleo-Christian cathedral and is rich in works of art. It reveals the signs of the long history of its construction in the Baroque (lower part) and Rococo (upper part) features.
The imposing and grandiose façade is in white Botticino marble, while the interior, with a Greek cross plan and three naves with a large presbytery, is marked by large columns and pillars that support the dome, completed by the architect Rodolfo Vantini and 80 meters high: it is the third highest in Italy, after St. Peter's in Rome and Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence!
Next to it you can see the Duomo Vecchio or Rotonda, dating back to the 12th century, a rare and notable example of a circular medieval stone building, which contains numerous works of art. Of particular importance to the left of the presbytery is the Cappella delle Sante Croci, which houses the Tesoro delle Sante Croci, precious relics and sacred and goldsmith objects. Under the presbytery, with access from two staircases, you can also access the Crypt of San Filastrio, from the Romanesque period and belonging to the first basilica.
Finally, outside the Duomo it is still possible to observe the ancient level of the city!