Religion in Italy

In this medieval church, a centuries-old stuffed crocodile hangs from the ceiling.

In this nearly 1,000-year-old monastery, monks painstakingly restore old books.

Numerous stone coffins from different centuries, lined up in a sixth century basilica.

The collar worn by a fourth-century saint resides in this church, and is still used for blessings to this day.

A monk spent 14 years carving steps through tuff to make this religious site more accessible to pilgrims.

The ruins of this once gorgeous medieval church are still standing, despite the region's constant flooding.

Ancient, mysterious stone altars are hidden among wild woods in central Italy.

The “Sistine Chapel” of the Middle Ages merges 11th-century science and religion in wondrous hues.

This former papal residence was the site of an infamous incident known as the “slap of Anagni.”

The city of Parma's cathedral is home to one of the greatest illusionistic frescoes of the Renaissance.

This medieval oratory decorated in magnificent frescos was constructed after Charlemagne received a vision.

This Romanesque church is built over the tomb of a martyr who legend says defeated a dragon.

This incredible second-century sculpture depicts a trio of gods worshipped by the ancient Romans.

This beautiful 150-year-old synagogue survived Italy's fascist period and the Second World War.

A small town lost in the mountains of southern Italy hosts the childhood home of one of the most famous saints of the 20th century.

This breathtaking monastery was established by Saint Benedict himself 1,500 years ago.