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Tempio Malatestiano

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cathedral
—°103
Tempio Malatestiano (Italy)

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The Tempio Malatestiano in Rimini is one of the most significant structures of the early Renaissance and was originally the Franciscan church of San Francesco. Commissioned by Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, the Lord of Rimini, it was radically transformed starting in 1450 by the renowned architect Leon Battista Alberti. Alberti designed a classicist marble shell inspired by Roman triumphal arches to enclose the medieval building. The project remained unfinished due to Malatesta's excommunication and political decline, which is particularly evident in the incomplete facade and the absence of the planned dome. Inside, the temple houses important artworks, including a crucifix by Giotto and a fresco by Piero della Francesca depicting Sigismondo before Saint Sigismund. The chapels are richly decorated with allegorical reliefs by Agostino di Duccio. The building is regarded as the first instance of a Renaissance facade that applied ancient monumental forms to a Christian sacred building.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C66913172225252016117
Rain mm557169636946384779798868

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Tempio Malatestiano in Rimini is an active church and can be visited free of charge. Visitors can admire the interior with Renaissance frescoes and the facade by Alberti. The church is usually open during the day, except during services.
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Typical hours
The church usually opens in the morning at 8:30 am, closes at noon from 12:00 to 3:00 pm, then reopens until 6:30 pm. Sunday hours may differ. Checking local notices in advance is advisable.
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Photography
Photography without flash is allowed inside. For capturing the frescoes, a fast lens is helpful as the lighting is subdued. Flash is prohibited during services.
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Time needed
A visit to Tempio Malatestiano takes about 20-30 minutes to appreciate the architecture and frescoes. Those who also want to see nearby Piazza Cavour and the city gate should allow an hour.
Combine with
Combine Tempio with nearby Piazza Cavour, Teatro Galli, and the Arco di Augusto. Rimini's beach is just a 15-minute walk away. A stroll through Rimini's old town is worthwhile.
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Getting there
Tempio Malatestiano is located in Rimini city center, about a 10-minute walk from Rimini train station. Buses lines 2, 4, and 8 stop nearby. Parking on surrounding streets is paid.
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Insider tip
Visit the church on a weekday late afternoon to enjoy the pleasant quiet. Pay attention to the detailed funerary monuments of the Malatesta family; they are easy to overlook. The peaceful atmosphere makes the visit worthwhile.

Geography

Coordinates
44.05940, 12.56780

Facts

  • Start of transformation: 1450
  • Facade architect: Leon Battista Alberti
  • Patron: Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta
  • Key fresco: Piero della Francesca (1451)
  • Interior crucifix: Giotto (c. 1312)
  • Reason for construction halt: Malatesta's excommunication in 1460

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Sights in the town Tempio Malatestiano (3)

Kalima Beach Club 17🎡 recreation

Kalima Beach Club 17 is a beach resort located near Tempio Malatestiano.

🕒 Mo-Su 08:00-19:00🆓

Anna 22🎡 recreation

Anna 22 has beach services in the coastal area by Tempio Malatestiano.

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Bagno 4 Amaracmand🎡 recreation

Bagno 4 Amaracmand is a well-equipped beach resort near Tempio Malatestiano.

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Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Who is the architect of the Tempio Malatestiano?
Leon Battista Alberti designed the famous marble facade in the Renaissance style.
In which city is this temple located?
The Tempio Malatestiano is the cathedral of Rimini, on the Adriatic coast.
What can you see inside?
Giotto's crucifix and a fresco by Piero della Francesca are particularly worth seeing.
Why is it called 'Tempio' and not just a church?
Due to its ancient, temple-like facade and its purpose of glorifying the Malatesta family.
Is entry free?
Entry is usually free, but donations for preservation are welcome.
Tempio Malatestiano: where is it located?
Tempio Malatestiano is located in Italy.
Tempio Malatestiano: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kalima Beach Club 17, Anna 22, Bagno 4 Amaracmand.
Tempio Malatestiano: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Tempio Malatestiano: why is it worth visiting?
The Tempio Malatestiano in Rimini is one of the most significant structures of the early Renaissance and was originally the Franciscan church of San Francesco.
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