Basilica of St. Agatha

First mentioned in documents from 1029 and 1040, this church took on the role of the ancient parish of St. Hippolytus. Its design follows a Latin cross plan, crowned by a hemispherical dome set within an octagonal lantern, rising gracefully at the intersection of the transept and nave. Between the 13th and 14th centuries, the nave was expanded in the Gothic style. In 1542, the church was elevated to a Collegiate Church, and in 1991, it attained the rank of Basilica, solidifying its importance in the local religious tradition.

Documented as early as the 11th century, St. Agatha’s role evolved from its predecessor, the parish of St. Hippolytus. Upon entering, the church’s rich history envelops you, especially when standing before the ancient baptismal font—a rare remnant from the old parish. The Gothic-styled nave expansion took place between the 13th and 14th centuries, and the church was named a Collegiate in 1542 and a Basilica in 1991.

Reflecting Romanesque-Gothic elegance, the church’s architecture symbolizes both stability and an upward thrust. The Latin cross layout and a majestic hemispherical dome, crowned by an octagonal lantern, rise at the transept and nave junction. Beneath the grand dome, within a seemingly endless space, stands a 15th-century wooden crucifix, considered miraculous and central to Asciano's September celebrations. The façade is adorned with three blind ogival arches, leaf-motif capitals, and a central rose window that captures daylight beautifully.

Inside, fragments of a 14th-century fresco depicting the “Assumption” showcase the church’s historical artistry. Other 16th-century works include the “Madonna Enthroned with Child,” painted by an assistant to Sodoma, and the “Deposition of Christ,” attributed to Bartolomeo Neroni. Along the nave walls, polychrome tiles of the “Stations of the Cross,” dated 1790 and crafted by Francesco Francini, an esteemed potter of the time, offer an additional touch of artistry. Other significant historical-artistic masterpieces are preserved in the Palazzo Corboli Museum.

As Asciano’s main place of worship, the Basilica often serves as the venue for cultural events and traditional celebrations, which enliven the community's spiritual life.