Welcome to the Museum of the Anagni Cathedral. This is Massimiliano, the hebdomadal deacon. I assist the chapter of priests who, ever since its creation, have overseen the diocese’s magnificent wealth of faith and art. I was welcomed here with exceptional hospitality, which I trust you will experience too. I also wish for you to feel guided and well-supported throughout the journey of discovery which you are about to embark upon, following the unfolding history of the city and papacy.

The Cathedral was built between 1072 and 1104 by order of Bishop Peter of Salerno. Legend has it that Bishop Peter was sent to Constantinople as Papal Legate. In the course of his stay he healed the byzantine Emperor, Michael VII, from sudden illness thanks to St Magno’s intercession. The Emperor was extremely grateful for such a miracle and was therefore very generous with the Bishop. Hence, once back in Anagni, the Bishop was able to complete construction of the Cathedral.

Building of the Caetani Chapel was completed in 1296. It was built upon the wishes of Pope Boniface VIII to hold the mortal remains of illustrious people linked to the Pope of Anagni and also to celebrate the spiritual and political power that he and his lineage were conferred with.

As we leave the Crypt and the Cathedral behind us, we enter the Lapidarium, which is divided into three large spaces. The first is a Cryptoporticus, a long corridor covered by imposing 13th century arches. This first room houses a precious archaeological collection of cippi, inscriptions and plaques dating back to Roman times. While in the three display cabinets we find artefacts which belonged to Onorato Capo and were donated to the Cathedral in the early 20th century. Of particular interest are the ollas, the oil lamps, a rare piglet-shaped rattle, and ex-votos, some of which are shaped as human organs or fruit. None of the objects displayed in this room are directly linked to the history of the Cathedral as they all actually predate its construction.