The cathedral takes inspiration from the basilica of Saint Nicholas in Bari in its eastern part, with the apses hidden by a wall enclosed between two bell towers. The apsidal area and the crypt are the only surviving parts of the ancient Romanesque building. In the enclosed section of the two bell towers, the openings create a pattern that runs upwards through a door, a blind arcade and two richly-sculpted windows. To the left and right of the central window there are two flowery lozenges. The pattern of the openings should have continued in the adjoining bell towers, as suggested by the double lancet windows of the original tower, the southern one. Along the lower section of the wall construction runs a sequence of entwined arches, reminiscent of the Islamic style. The façade is sculpted with stylised gargoyles, typical monstrous animals of the local Romanesque bestiary. While on the outside only the mixed-line door with the niche suggests a baroque restoration, inside such restoration is substantiated by the layout of the cathedral, with one nave and two aisles and a wide transept. A sculptural group with torch-holding angels can be admired on the altar.
A Brief History:
The church seems to date from Norman times. According to the sources, the crypt was completed in 1150 and the upper church in 1180, although it was consecrated one century later. Originally, its layout and overall appearance must have been very similar to those of Saint Nicholas’ in Bari, with one nave and two aisles divided by marble columns alternating with pillars, apses and two bell towers on the eastern façade. Over the centuries static works had to be carried out, also to adjust the architectural areas to the liturgical requirements set forth by the Council of Trento. The rose window and the double lancet window on the southern facade date back to the nineteenth century.
Main Works:
The sculptural group Glory of the Sacrament on the altar; the eighteenth-century pulpit in lacquered and gilded wood; the baptismal font; the floor made of chianche (typical slabs of pale-coloured local stone).
Style:
Romanesque in its original construction, then altered with the addition of baroque features inside the cathedral.
Sources: By the editorial staff Updated on: 30/06/2010
Project created in collaboration with InnovaPuglia.
Regione Puglia
Regione Puglia