Basilica San Teodoro, Pavia

Located in the historic centre of Pavia in a diagonal position and somewhat hidden compared to very close and imposing Cathedral, the Basilica of San Teodoro is situated on a natural terrace declining towards the Ticino River in an area formerly inhabited by fishermen, boatmen and small traders who drew their livelihood from activities along the river. And it was precisely the corporations who then gathered these crafts to promote and finance the construction of the Church, dedicated to the Saint who worshipped as Patron Saint and Bishop of Pavia towards the middle of the eighth century, in transition the Lombard Kingdom to Charlemagne. Built in Romanesque style of the last period, with walls and terracotta facades lombardo, cross-vaulted aisles, remodeled several times over the centuries and restored to its original splendor at the beginning of the last century, has beautiful medieval votive frescoes both, both from the Renaissance era, including two frescoes of vedute di Pavia very well preserved. The crypt beneath the main altar, where the granite Ark of San Teodoro, retains much of the original decorations, restored by recent restorations which have also uncovered some medieval mosaics that can be seen below the level of the floor in the first Bay of the right aisle, near the entrance. The artistic richness, the architectural harmony and the small dimensions of the Interior shall provide for an atmosphere of intimacy and recollection, invite reflection and inspire as much serenity. Once outside the basilica, you immediately feel the desire to return for another visit. Is definitely the ideal Church to celebrate a wedding surrounded by the affection of relatives and closest friends, or for religious experience, in an intimate and evocative, in austere silence and in holiness of a place mapped out by centuries of history.

Another basilica where I go often, beautiful the altar with the crypt below, it's a little hidden but worth visiting

A hidden gem of Pavia: hard to find even with Google Maps. And from the outside looks very anonymous. But upon entering you end up in a warm and hospitable environment, with walls decorated with beautiful frescos and mosaics found all to be admired. Best of the Cathedral and other churches.