The Tempio Malatestiano is Rimini's cathedral and one of the great buildings of the early Renaissance. Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, the ruthless and cultured lord of Rimini, transformed an old Gothic church into a monument to himself and his court, hiring Leon Battista Alberti to wrap it in a classical marble shell inspired by Roman triumphal arches. The exterior was never finished, which gives the facade a strange, open feel, but inside the sculpture, medals and reliefs are astonishing. Piero della Francesca painted a fresco of Sigismondo kneeling before his patron saint, and a crucifix attributed to the school of Giotto hangs in the nave.
The interior is a catalogue of Renaissance ambition. Agostino di Duccio carved the chapel reliefs with dancing putti, allegories and astrological symbols, giving the walls a jewel-like richness. Elephants, the heraldic animal of the Malatesta family, appear throughout, along with the interlaced initials of Sigismondo and his lover Isotta degli Atti. This is a church that doubles as a political statement, which was controversial even in its own time, and Pope Pius II famously condemned the project as pagan. That tension between devotion and self-glorification is why the building fascinates.
Allow time to look slowly. The Piero fresco is small but exceptional, an early work in which the figures have calm monumentality. The Giotto-school crucifix is among the earliest important works preserved in the city and shows the foundation of the painting tradition that the Malatesta later patronised. The side chapels hold tombs and sculpture, and the guides and audio materials explain symbolism that is easy to miss. Because the church is still used for worship, dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered.
Practical tips
Entry is usually free or by donation, though hours vary and the church closes for midday services, so check locally. Photography rules differ and flash is not allowed. The temple sits a short walk from Castel Sismondo and Piazza Cavour, so pair it with them on a half day old town walk. If you travel with children, make a game of counting the elephants. Allow 30 to 45 minutes, and go early or late in the day to avoid tour groups. The facade is best viewed from the street in late afternoon light.
What to expect
The experience
A working cathedral with an unfinished Renaissance facade and richly sculpted interior.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon, avoiding services.
How long
30 to 45 minutes.
Tips
Cover shoulders and knees, and look for the Piero della Francesca fresco and the elephants.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Art and architecture lovers.
- Families
- Counting elephants keeps children interested.
- Couples
- A quiet, beautiful stop for couples who love art.
- Pair with
- Castel Sismondo and Piazza Cavour.
- Time needed
- Under an hour.
Good questions
Who designed the facade?+
Leon Battista Alberti, working for Sigismondo Malatesta.
Which painter made the fresco?+
Piero della Francesca painted Sigismondo kneeling before Saint Sigismund.
Is it free to enter?+
Entry is normally free or by donation, but confirm locally.
Why are there elephants?+
The elephant was a heraldic symbol of the Malatesta family.
Is there a dress code?+
Yes, cover shoulders and knees since it is a working church.