Museo della Cattedrale

The Cathedral Museum of Cesena preserves sacred furnishings and artworks associated with the cathedral and the bishops of Cesena. Its best-known work is Paolo Veneziano’s Madonna della Pera, displayed alongside episcopal vestments and liturgical objects.

Why it matters

The museum documents the artistic and religious life of Cesena’s cathedral. Its collection brings together objects used by the bishops and artworks connected with the church, with the Madonna della Pera as a principal highlight.

What to notice

In the Madonna della Pera, the Virgin holds the pear that gives the panel its name. The surrounding collection includes bishops’ vestments, sacred furnishings and other artworks, presenting a compact view of the cathedral’s material heritage.

Context and history

The museum is located beside the cathedral in Cesena’s historic centre. Its holdings reflect the relationship between the cathedral, the episcopal office and the wider Diocese of Cesena-Sarsina.