Why Santa Croce

In the XVII century Paolo Bonoli (historian from Forlì) wrote: "The cathedral is dedicated to S. Croce because of the preservation of a very large part of the cross of which there is also a relic in seven other churches of the city".

In 1863 Pompeo Randi frescoed the apse wall behind the high altar and the theme could only be the "Invention and recognition of the Holy Cross". In the background there is a Pantheon that reproduces in small size the facade of the Cathedral rebuilt in 1841.

The high altar, made with ancient marbles found during an archaeological excavation, was originally destined for the basilica of San Paolo outside the walls in Rome; it was donated to the people of Forli by Pope Pius IX during a visit in 1857.