Duomo of Orvieto

Cathedral with Ornate Facade housing the Relic of the Eucharistic Miracle of Bolsena

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A masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture, the Cathedral of Orvieto was begun in 1290 to honor the Eucharistic Miracle of Bolsena and to house the Corporal of the Miracle. Its magnificent façade, adorned with biblical scenes and shimmering gold mosaics, invites pilgrims to reflect on the mystery of the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.

The miracle occurred in 1263, when a German priest, struggling with doubts about the Real Presence, was celebrating Mass in the town of Bolsena. As he consecrated the Host, it began to bleed onto the corporal linen. Shocked and awed, he brought the corporal to nearby Orvieto, where Pope Urban IV was staying. Moved by the miracle, the pope commissioned the construction of the cathedral to house the sacred relic. Today, the blood-stained corporal is encased above the tabernacle in the Chapel of the Corporal, drawing countless pilgrims in prayer and adoration.

Inside, the Cappella di San Brizio features striking frescoes by Luca Signorelli that vividly portray the Last Judgement—scenes of salvation and condemnation rendered with powerful emotion for Renaissance audiences. In the Chapel of the Corporal, additional frescoes recount the history of the Eucharistic Miracle and illustrate biblical events that illuminate this central mystery of the Faith.

The cathedral’s stunning façade is among the most remarkable in Italy, richly decorated with bas-reliefs, sculptures, and mosaics depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments. At its center, a grand rose window draws the eye heavenward, symbolizing divine light. Every detail was designed to teach, move, and inspire—making the façade not only a work of art but a visual catechism that prepares the pilgrim’s heart for worship.

Discover Orvieto and More Shrines on our EWTN Learn Series, "Saints in Italy"

Begin your Spiritual Journey Here

Join Teresa Tomeo on a spiritual journey in Italy! In this free video series, you’ll walk in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Clare of Assisi, and Bl. Carlo Acutis. Explore the places where they lived, prayed, and learned to surrender themselves to God. Most importantly we’ll be inspired by their examples to grow stronger in our Catholic faith as we, too, seek to become saints.

As you embark on this pilgrimage, reflect on God’s gifts revealed through the lives of the saints, the beauty of sacred art, and the splendor of magnificent churches and basilicas.

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