Magnificent Duomo square can be reached crossing a pointed arch surmounted by a bell tower. The Cathedral is placed on its left side. Though this building was initially in Romanesque style, few remnants of that period can still be seen today. Among these, the external apse dates back from 1089-1132, though it was reconstructed in 1746 after an earthquake which had damaged the building overall architectural structure.
The baroque bell tower was built in 1780. The building layout is shaped as a Latin cross with a nave and two aisles. Recent renovations involved the removal of baroque decorations inside the cathedral. Between 1957 and 1968, interesting and precious mosaic-art finds were discovered on the ancient 1178 floor, with characteristic zoomorphic patterns surely connected with lost Carolingian-cycle scenes.
A Brief History:
Already unsafe before the 1743 earthquake, when it was completely destroyed, the Cathedral was reconstructed by architect Mauro Manieri upon Mons. Andrea Maddalena's request. Its basilican layout recalls the previous building along with the left aisle apse and other decorative elements, among which some remnants of the 1180 floor mosaic ordered by Archbishiop Guglielmo II, probably made by Pantaleone, who also made a mosaic for Otranto Cathedral.
Not to be missed:
The high altar hosts a precious overhang Settecento silver frontlet. Paintings by Oronzo Tiso, placed at the altar sides and portraying the martyrdom of S. Pelino and preaching of S. Leucio, are also very interesting.
Main Works:
The baroque walnut choir is very interesting. Made between 1580 and 1594, it was ordered by Bishop De Ayardi and was recently restored.
Sources: By the editorial staff Updated on: 01/07/2010
Project created in collaboration with InnovaPuglia.
Regione Puglia
Regione Puglia