Standing strikingly against the immensely blue skyline of the charming village of Lugano is the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, a Roman Catholic cathedral dedicated to Saint Lawrence of Rome. The beautiful white stone and Carrara marble façade ascribe to the historical and religious significance of this brilliant architectural work of art, inspired by another Romanesque masterpiece – Giovanni Antonio Amadeo's Certosa di Pavia.

Founded in the high middle ages but officially completed in the late 15th-century, the church has withstood the test of time and remains as the official seat of the Diocese of Lugano. The central portal of the church, also called the “Saints Portal”, draws the eye effortlessly, with its beautifully decorated frescoes of puttoes, birds, and lion-protomes, a large rose window adorned by colourful depictions of cherub angels, and 5 medallions with relief, depicting 4 saints and in the middle, Virgin Mary with the child. Visitors should also not miss the impressive bell tower, which is designed with Baroque influences and features an octagonal lantern covered by a cupola.