Casale Monferrato Cathedral

Casale Monferrato Cathedral Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Casale Monferrato Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Sant’Evasio (Duomo di Sant’Evasio), is a monumental testament to centuries of faith, art, and community identity in the heart of Casale Monferrato, Piedmont, Italy. Consecrated in the early 12th century, this cathedral is renowned for its striking Romanesque and Gothic architecture, later Baroque and Neo-Romanesque additions, and its role as a living center of religious and cultural life. Visitors can expect to encounter a unique blend of architectural styles, significant artworks, sacred relics, and a vibrant calendar of events, all set within a welcoming and accessible environment (corvinus.nl; Comune di Casale Monferrato).

This comprehensive guide details everything you need to know—from visiting hours, ticketing, and accessibility to architectural highlights, travel tips, and nearby attractions—ensuring an enriching and seamless experience at one of Piedmont’s most treasured historical sites.

Historical Overview

Early Origins and Development

The cathedral stands on a site of Christian worship dating back to the early Middle Ages. Originally dedicated to Saint Lawrence and later co-dedicated to Saint Evasius, the first bishop of Asti, the church was expanded under the Lombard King Liutprand in the 8th century. The Romanesque building, as seen today, was consecrated by Pope Paschal II in 1107 or 1108 (corvinus.nl).

Medieval Challenges and Restoration

Throughout the centuries, the cathedral endured periods of conflict and restoration. It was damaged in 1215 during regional wars, and the relics of Saint Evasius were stolen and recovered nearly two centuries later. In 1474, the church was elevated to cathedral status with the founding of the Diocese of Casale Monferrato, solidifying its importance as a spiritual and community landmark.

Architectural Evolution

Romanesque Foundations

The core of the cathedral is Romanesque, characterized by robust masonry, thick walls, and an asymmetrical façade built of brick and sandstone. Notably, the right bell tower is taller than the left, and a third tower stands at the rear, reflecting centuries of architectural adaptation (corvinus.nl).

Unique Narthex and Eastern Influences

A rare and monumental narthex, possibly influenced by Eastern traditions encountered during the Crusades, precedes the entrance. Medieval sculptural details, such as Romanesque capitals and hunting scene lunettes, adorn this distinctive space.

Later Additions and Restorations

Baroque elements were introduced in the 18th century, and a significant 19th-century restoration by Edoardo Arborio Mella preserved the Romanesque core while incorporating Neo-Romanesque features (corvinus.nl).

Artistic Highlights

Inside, visitors find an 11th–12th century crucifix, the tomb of Bishop Bernardino Gamberia by Matteo Sanmicheli, and a variety of frescoes, mosaics, and stained glass windows (SpottingHistory; GranMonferrato).

Spiritual and Cultural Significance

The cathedral is the episcopal seat of the Diocese of Casale Monferrato and a central venue for major liturgical celebrations, processions, and community events. It houses sacred relics of Saint Evasius—whose martyrdom is memorialized within the cathedral—and statues reflecting its Lombard heritage, including King Liutprand and Queen Teodelinda (corvinus.nl).

Religious festivals, particularly the feast of Sant’Evasio, draw large numbers of pilgrims and locals, reinforcing the cathedral’s role in community life. The cathedral also serves as a venue for art exhibitions, concerts, and educational tours.

Visitor Information

Address and Location

Address: Largo Monsignor Giuseppe Angrisani, Casale Monferrato, Italy
Setting: Central historic district, a short walk from Piazza Mazzini (Italy This Way)

Getting There

By Car: Easily accessible from SP 456 or A26 motorway. Parking is available outside the Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL); €1–2/hour (Evendo).
By Train: Casale Monferrato station connects to Turin and Alessandria; 15-minute walk to the cathedral.
By Bus: Regional buses stop near the cathedral.
On Foot: The cathedral’s central location allows for easy walking access from anywhere in the historic center.

Visiting Hours

Cathedral: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sundays and holidays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Museum (Museo del Duomo): Saturdays and Sundays, 15:00–18:00
Attic Tours: Sundays at 15:00, 16:00, and 17:00 (advance booking required; limit 10 participants per tour)
Always confirm hours on the official website or with the tourist office, as schedules may change for religious services or special events.

Tickets and Fees

Cathedral: Free entry
Museum & Attic Tours: Modest fee applies (museum: open weekends; attic tours: book via +39 392 9388505 or [email protected]) (Monferrato.org)
Special Events: Free access to monuments and museums during “Casale Città Aperta” weekends (Gran Monferrato)

Accessibility

Wheelchair ramps at main entrances
Accessible restrooms nearby
Attic tours require stairs and may not be suitable for all visitors
Assistance available upon request (Evendo)

Facilities

Restrooms available near the cathedral and in local cafes
Tourist information at IAT office, Castello di Casale Monferrato
Shops and cafés, including bakeries famous for Krumiri biscuits (Velvet Escape)

Etiquette

Modest attire required (cover shoulders and knees)
Silence and respect during services
Photography allowed without flash or tripods during Mass (Italy This Way)

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Façade & Narthex: Asymmetrical brick and sandstone façade; rare monumental narthex with medieval sculptures
Bell Tower: 75 meters tall, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles
Interior: Five naves, polychrome columns, Renaissance and Baroque chapels, 19th-century frescoes by Luigi Morgari
Crypt: 12th-century sanctuary, 36 columns, houses relics of Saint Evasius
Museum: 12th-century mosaics, silver reliquary, precious liturgical objects

Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itineraries

Enhance your visit by exploring:

Piazza Mazzini: Civic Tower, equestrian statue of King Charles Albert (Bimbeinviaggio)
Paleologi-Gonzaga Castle: Regional wine shop and exhibitions (Velvet Escape)
Jewish Synagogue and Museum: One of Europe’s most beautiful, open Sundays (Monferrato.org)
Civic Museum and Gipsoteca Bistolfi: Art collections and plaster works (Bimbeinviaggio)

Events and Special Experiences

Casale Città Aperta: Monthly free-access weekends to monuments and museums (Gran Monferrato)
Wine Festival (September): DOC wines at Paleologi Castle (Bimbeinviaggio)
Notte Bianca (Summer): Evening music, shopping, and cultural events (Monferrato.org)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Cathedral: 9:00–18:00 (Mon–Sat), 10:00–17:00 (Sun/holidays). Museum: Sat–Sun, 15:00–18:00. Attic tours: Sun at 15:00, 16:00, 17:00.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Cathedral entry is free. The museum and attic tours require a small fee.

Q: Is the cathedral accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the main entrance and nave are accessible; attic tours involve stairs.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, especially during “Casale Città Aperta” or through private arrangement. Attic tours must be booked in advance.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Park outside the ZTL and walk to the cathedral; paid parking is available.

Q: How can I book attic tours?
A: Book via phone (+39 392 9388505) or email ([email protected]).

Visual Recommendations and Interactive Elements

Include high-quality photos of the façade, narthex, mosaics, and museum exhibits with descriptive alt text (e.g., “Casale Monferrato Cathedral visiting hours”, “Duomo di Sant’Evasio medieval mosaics”).
Embed a map showing the cathedral’s location and nearby attractions.
Link to virtual tours if available on the official tourism website.

Contact Information

Tourist Office (IAT): Castello di Casale Monferrato, Open Tuesday–Sunday, +39 0142 457789, [email protected] (Monferrato.org)
Attic Tours Booking: +39 392 9388505, [email protected]

For updates and event information, visit the official Casale Monferrato tourism website or the Gran Monferrato portal.

Plan Your Visit

Casale Monferrato Cathedral encapsulates the spirit of the city—melding ancient origins, architectural splendor, and living tradition. With free main admission, accessible facilities, and a wealth of art and history, the Duomo di Sant’Evasio is a must-see for anyone visiting Piedmont. For the latest updates on visiting hours, tickets, and tours, consult the official websites or contact the tourist office.

Enhance your experience by downloading the Audiala app for audio guides and event updates, and explore our related posts on Piedmont’s historical and cultural sites. Follow us on social media for travel inspiration and practical tips.