Andria Cathedral

The Andria Cathedral, locally known as Cattedrale di Andria, stands as a magnificent testament to the rich history and architectural grandeur of Andria, a charming city in the Puglia region of Italy. This cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, is not just a place of worship but a treasure trove of historical tales, religious relics, and architectural splendor that has been captivating visitors for centuries.

The History of Andria Cathedral

The origins of Andria Cathedral date back to the late 11th century and early 12th century when it was commissioned by Goffredo d'Altavilla, the lord of Andria. It was built on the site of a pre-existing church dedicated to St. Peter, which itself predated the year 1000 and now corresponds to the crypt of the cathedral. The original structure, pre-Norman in style, forms the current presbytery and had its entrance facing south.

In 1063, the cathedral was expanded to include three naves, connected by twelve pillars with typical Puglian Romanesque arches. The Normans left their mark on the cathedral by placing the tomb of Emma, the wife of Count Riccardo d'Altavilla, within its walls. The Swabians also contributed by adding the tombs of Yolanda of Brienne and Isabella of England, both wives of Frederick II, which are now housed in the crypt.

Throughout the centuries, the cathedral has undergone several modifications. In the mid-14th century, it was sacked by the army of King Louis I of Hungary, necessitating repairs and further expansions in the early 15th century. Notably, in 1414, Francesco I del Balzo, the Duke of Andria, enlarged the presbytery and constructed a grand pointed arch. His successor, Francesco II del Balzo, further adorned the chapel of St. Richard with stone bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the saint's life.

The 16th century saw the addition of several side chapels by Bishop Martino De Soto Mayor. A significant historical event took place on February 13, 1503, when thirteen Italian knights, led by Ettore Fieramosca, swore an oath of Victory or Death in the chapel of St. Richard before the famous Challenge of Barletta.

The cathedral underwent substantial changes in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, including the construction of its current facade and external portico.

Exploring Andria Cathedral

As you approach Andria Cathedral, the first thing that catches your eye is its stunning facade, designed by architect Federico Santacroce and completed in 1844. The upper part of the facade was modified during restoration work in the 1960s to reflect a Romanesque style, featuring a rose window and single-lancet windows. The adjacent 50-meter-high bell tower, a product of two successive constructions, stands proudly with its Lombard base and Norman additions, culminating in an octagonal turret topped with a verdigris rooster, symbolizing St. Peter.

Stepping inside, the cathedral's interior is a harmonious blend of historical and artistic elements. The three naves, separated by elegant arches, lead to a richly decorated transept and a presbytery adorned with a magnificent wooden coffered ceiling. The presbytery and the apse are accessible through a grand pointed triumphal arch, a masterpiece by Alessandro Guadagno.

Visitors can explore ten side chapels, five on each side, which were reopened during restoration work from 2005 to 2008. These chapels house various artworks and religious artifacts, including a coral breccia altar, a local limestone episcopal chair, and a lectern created by sculptor Luigi Enzo Mattei. The chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, accessible from the second chapel on the left, boasts baroque forms, a polychrome marble tabernacle, and a silver-plated bronze statue of St. Richard.

The cathedral also features a chapel dedicated to the Sacred Thorn, containing a relic of the Crown of Thorns, gifted by Beatrice of Anjou. Additionally, the sacristy, with its exquisite marble floor and walnut furnishings, adds to the cathedral's charm.

The Crypt of St. Peter

Descending into the crypt, visitors are transported back in time. This ancient space, with its two naves, cross-vaulted ceilings, and repurposed columns, houses the tombs of Yolanda of Brienne and Isabella of England. An altar, adorned with a fresco of Christ Pantocrator, stands at the end of the crypt, which was once used as an ossuary and rediscovered in the early 20th century. According to tradition, St. Peter celebrated a mass here in 44 AD during his journey to Rome, marking the beginning of Andria's Christian community.

The crypt also contains the tomb of St. Richard, buried here between the 6th and 8th centuries in a stone sarcophagus with a canopy supported by columns.

A Visit to Remember

Andria Cathedral is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of history, art, and faith. From its Romanesque facade to its richly decorated interior and ancient crypt, the cathedral offers a fascinating journey through centuries of history. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a pilgrim, a visit to Andria Cathedral is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of its beauty and significance.