The Cathedral Museum

Type:

Luoghi della cultura; Ente/Istituzione

Category:

Archaeology museums

The Cathedral of Barletta may be defined as a great museum that contains an ancient local history which is reflected in its rich artistic and architectural details. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore, which is located in the oldest part of the urban centre of Barletta, was built at the beginning of the X century on the ruins of an ancient Christian Basilica dating from the sixth century A.D. and a subterranean structure dating from the third century. B.C. The early Romanesque Basilica, flanked by palaces and other buildings, stands magnificently with its facade facing a public square. From an architectural point of view, the building consists of two distinct styles, the first of which is Romanesque which is clearly visible in the front, with a facade with high pilasters, a tympanum and climbing arches. The second style is typically Gothic with higher and wider structures. The Cathedral contains precious and ancient paintings and frescoes, many works in gold, bronze and brass. The sculptures dating back to different periods are important. The Cathedral of Barletta also includes an underground museum where you can see the catacombs, ancient mosaics and carved tombstones.