Any timeAsk EneaThe Scopri Gaeta guide answers even at night.
For September and October 2026, Porte Aperte sets out opening times for the Cathedral, Crypt and other venues in the old town. Bell-tower access is limited to the two listed dates and requires a reservation. For venues managed by other organisations, such as the Annunziata, check the relevant operator’s conditions.
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 opening calendar and conditions set by the operator |
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
In the medieval old town, consider walking routes, steps and restricted-traffic access. Consult the parking guide and check signs, rates and availability in your chosen area: do not assume a free space or a rate valid for every period. Read more: Parcheggio Gaeta Medievale (Piazzale 5 Febbraio).
Check the weekday before planning your itinerary: the venues do not all open on the same days. The poster lists the Cathedral and Crypt until 5 pm in the afternoon; San Francesco and Terra Santa di San Domenico have different windows.
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?
The Basilica’s website states that Cathedral entry is free. Check separately the conditions for visits and venues run by other organisations; the bell tower still requires a reservation on the specified dates.
Which churches can you visit in Gaeta in September and October?
According to the September–October 2026 poster: Cathedral and Crypt daily; San Giovanni a Mare Friday to Sunday; San Francesco Saturday and Sunday; Terra Santa di San Domenico on Sunday mornings. For the Annunziata, consult its operator’s calendar, separately from parish-managed openings.
All dates and a location map are available on the event page.
You can ask Enea to consult the information available in the guide. For last-minute changes, special openings or a visit that depends on an exact time, confirm with the venue or organiser before setting off. Read more: Ask Enea.
