The Malatesta Temple is the main Catholic church in Rimini. Locals often call it the Cathedral. In 1809, it officially became the Cathedral of Santa Colomba. Before that, it was a medieval church. However, under Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, it changed completely. He started a major renovation to show power and faith.
He brought in top artists of the Italian Renaissance. Leon Battista Alberti designed the new marble façade. It used Roman style with Renaissance ideas. Matteo de’ Pasti added fine decorative details. Moreover, Agostino di Duccio carved elegant reliefs. They tell spiritual stories through beautiful figures.
In addition, Piero della Francesca painted a special fresco. It shows Sigismondo kneeling before Saint Sigismund. This linked the ruler with heaven and authority. Even though the project stopped early, the result still impresses.
Because it mixes Gothic roots with new styles, it stands out. It reflects both faith and art. Many call it a symbol of the Rimini Renaissance. Also, it’s one of the top works of the 15th century in Italy.
Since 1940, the temple has been a national monument. It honors history, culture, and belief. Visitors come to admire its calm and beauty. Even though incomplete, it tells a complete story.
So, through time, wars, and changes, it still remains strong. It holds memory, art, and meaning. Each stone tells a piece of Rimini’s past.
How to Reach the Basilica Cattedrale di San Colomba, Rimini, Italy
Airways
You can reach Rimini by flying into Federico Fellini International Airport (RMI), located just 6 kilometers from the city center. It serves domestic and seasonal international flights. For more flight options, Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is about 1 hour 30 minutes away by car or train and offers numerous European connections.
Railways
The Rimini Railway Station is centrally located and well connected to major Italian cities like Bologna, Florence, Rome, and Milan. Trains run frequently, especially from Bologna, with travel times around 1 to 2 hours depending on the route. The basilica is about 1 kilometer from the station and can be reached easily on foot or by bus.
Roadways
Rimini is accessible via the A14 Autostrada Adriatica, which runs along the eastern coast of Italy. If you’re driving, take the Rimini Sud or Rimini Nord exits, depending on your direction. National and regional bus services also run daily from cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Within Rimini, local buses and taxis can take you directly to the cathedral.
Verified listing