The Cathedral is an impressive religious building constructed in the second half of the fifteenth century in Gothic style, accessible from Via Cattedrale just off Piazza della Libertà and located at the highest point of the White City. The current architectural layout is the result of renovations between 1469-1495, when the old Romanesque church was expanded in an attempt to repair the damages of the 1456 earthquake that shook the entire Salento region. Reconstruction was completed thanks to the people of Ostuni who footed the entire bill. The main façade, divided in three portals ending with the ogive arch, is suffocated by the overly close old seminary that occupies most of the square and partially overshadows the magnificent lines and decorations on the façade so that you can only admire the grandeur and beauty by nearing the stone bridge.
A Brief History:
Its construction dates back to between 1437 and 1470 commissioned by bishop Nicola Arpone of Taranto, native of Taranto and related to the last Del Balzo Orsini heir. It is believed that the church was built on the ruins of castle that dominated the city: Bishop Arpone succeeded not only having the Ostuni population contribute in footing the bill, but also provided the necessary labourers to complete the construction.
Not to be missed:
Don’t miss the Cavalcata di S. Oronzo on August 26th when knights in costume on horseback parade through the city centre.
Main Works:
Beautiful frescoes in the central nave dedicated to the patron saint Oronzo and martyr St. Biagio.
Sources: By the editorial staff Updated on: 06/05/2011
Project created in collaboration with InnovaPuglia.
Regione Puglia
Regione Puglia