Episcopal seat of the Catholic archdiocese of Bari-Bitonto. It was built on the ruins of the Byzantine cathedral destroyed by William I, known as the Evil... #tuttitaly
The Basilica Cathedral of San Sabino is a splendid example of Romanesque architecture in Bari, in Apulia. Built-in the 12th and 13th centuries on the ruins of the Byzantine Cathedral destroyed by the Norman William the Wicked, the Cathedral features a luminous limestone façade adorned with arches, pilasters, and a beautifully decorated rose window.
Among the details not to be missed are the heads of the transept, with rosettes and biforas, the trulla (an ancient baptistery converted into a sacristy), and the bell tower with an imposing spire. Once inside, you can admire the grandeur of the three naves, devoid of the Baroque stuccoes removed at the beginning of the 20th century and soberly decorated with elements carved in visible limestone.
An interesting detail to note is what happens on June 21, the day of the summer solstice, when the sun's rays filtering through the 18 sections of the rose window on the façade create a perfect combination with the rose petals that decorate the floor of the aisle, giving a unique atmosphere.
Under the transept is the crypt, which houses the Virgin Odegitria icon and the San Sabino and Santa Colomba relics.
Next to the crypt extends the substructure, a space with stratified history decorated with mosaics and frescoes, where elements of the ancient Byzantine church merge with Roman ruins. It is a place full of history and mystery that certainly deserves a visit during a trip to Bari.
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