About the Cathedral of Saint Pancras (St. Pancrazio) Cathedral in Albano, Italy:
The Cathedral stands on the site of an earlier basilica dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, founded by Emperor Constantine the Great in the 4th century. In the 9th century, Pope Leo III rebuilt the church and rededicated it to Saint Pancras in 1721.
In September 1865, Pope Pius IX elevated the cathedral to the status of a minor basilica, recognizing its spiritual and historical signiificance.
The exterior features a late Baroque style with a tympanum crowned by a cross and the marble coat of arms of Cardinal Bishop Fabrizio Paolucci. A blind window resembling a “loggia of blessings” and friezes depicting the palm of martyrdom (symbolizing Saint Pancras) adorn the facade.
The interior is neoclassical, divided into three aisles with six side chapels containing 18th-century paintings. The apse features three large paintings: the finding of the Holy Cross by Saint Helena, the glory of Saint Pancras, and the apparition of the Holy Cross to Constantine. The cathedral has a marble sarcophagus from the early Christian period that is also interesting.
The cathedral has hosted significant papal events, including Pope Benedict XVI’s visit in 2008 for the dedication of a new main altar and Pope Francis’ visit in 2019.
Traveling to the Cathedral of Saint Pancras in Albano, Italy:
Albano is approximately 30 miles (48 km) southeast of Rome, making it an easy day trip from Rome.The Cathedral is not very close to the train station, which is about 20 miles (31.6 km) from Pavona’s railway station via A90/E80, so a taxi would be needed to reach the Cathedral. There is no website for the Cathedral so far as we know.
Address: Piazza Pia, 28, 00041 Albano Laziale RM, Italy
Phone: +39 327 118 5079