There is a side to Gaeta that many visitors miss, tucked away behind the heavy wooden doors of the medieval quarter. Throughout September and October 2026, the Basilica Cattedrale di Gaeta is opening its treasures to the public through the «Porte Aperte» initiative: churches, the crypt, and the climb up the bell tower—all with free admission.
A quick note worth reading before you head out: opening hours have changed compared to the summer. Afternoon visits now begin at 16:00 instead of 16:30, and the Cattedrale is also open every morning.
Opening hours, venue by venue
| Venue | When it is open |
|---|---|
| Cattedrale and Cripta | Every day 10:30–12:30 and 16:00–17:00 |
| Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista a Mare | Friday to Sunday 10:30–12:30 and 16:00–18:00 |
| Tempio di San Francesco d’Assisi | Saturday and Sunday 10:30–12:30 |
| Terra Santa di San Domenico | Sunday 10:00–12:00 managed by the Confraternita del Rosario |
| Santuario della SS.ma Annunziata | Managed by Istituti Riuniti del Lazio independent opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday |
Climbing the bell tower: only two dates, reservation required
This is an experience not to be missed. The Norman bell tower of the Cattedrale—visible from across the gulf, with its colorful majolica tiles and ancient Roman lions at the base—can only be climbed on specific dates. For this edition, there are just two:
- Sunday, 27 September 2026 at 16:00
- Sunday, 25 October 2026 at 16:00
Reservations are mandatory: simply email ars@cattedralegaeta.it. Places are limited and there are only two dates over the two months, so it is best to book well in advance.
What you will see
The Basilica Cattedrale di Sant’Erasmo has been the spiritual heart of Gaeta for nearly a thousand years: consecrated in 1106, it preserves the Stendardo di Lepanto (Banner of Lepanto) and the famous 13th-century Cero Pasquale (Paschal Candlestick), a monumental marble column carved with dozens of sacred scenes. Down below, the Cripta houses the relics of the patron saint along with a cycle of frescoes that is well worth the visit on its own.
Just a short stroll away, the Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista a Mare is one of Gaeta’s most intriguing examples of medieval architecture, featuring a floor gently sloped toward the sea. Meanwhile, the Tempio di San Francesco presides over the city from above: 19th-century neo-Gothic style, a grand monumental staircase, and panoramic views that make the walk up completely worthwhile.
These are all stops within the medieval quarter: if you only have one day, you will find them already included in our one-day Gaeta itinerary.
How to get there and where to park
The medieval quarter is pedestrianized and best explored on foot. If you are arriving by car, the most convenient option is Parcheggio Gaeta Medievale (Piazzale 5 Febbraio), with blue-line paid parking at €2 per hour or €15 for the full day. Keep an eye out for the historic center’s ZTL (restricted traffic zone): active hours vary throughout the year, so be sure to check them before driving into the narrow streets.
A practical tip for this time of year: during September and October, the best window to visit is the morning, when nearly all sites are open at the same time (10:30) and natural light fills the churches. In the afternoon, the Cattedrale closes at 17:00, earlier than many visitors expect.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Cattedrale di Gaeta open?
In September and October 2026, every day from 10:30 to 12:30 and from 16:00 to 17:00. The same hours apply to the Cripta.
Can you climb the bell tower of the Cattedrale?
Yes, but only on scheduled dates and with advance reservation: Sunday, 27 September and Sunday, 25 October 2026, at 16:00. You can book by emailing ars@cattedralegaeta.it.
Is there an admission fee?
No, all visits under the «Porte Aperte» initiative offer free admission.
Which churches can you visit in Gaeta in September and October?
The Cattedrale and Cripta di Sant’Erasmo are open every day; San Giovanni Evangelista a Mare from Friday to Sunday; Tempio di San Francesco d’Assisi on Saturdays and Sundays; Terra Santa di San Domenico on Sunday mornings. The Santuario della SS.ma Annunziata, home to the Cappella d’Oro, follows its own independent schedule from Tuesday to Sunday.
All dates and a location map are available on the event page.
Not sure what is open today? Ask Enea, Gaeta’s digital guide: always up to date with opening hours for all the city’s sights and attractions.
