Foggia Cathedral

Foggia Cathedral, known locally as Cattedrale di Foggia, stands as a magnificent testament to the historical and architectural grandeur nestled in the heart of Foggia, Italy. This cathedral, officially named Beata Maria Vergine Assunta in Cielo, has weathered centuries of history, from its origins in the 12th century to its modern-day splendor, making it a must-visit for any traveler exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Apulia.

The Historical Tapestry of Foggia Cathedral

The roots of Foggia Cathedral trace back to the late 11th century when a church named Santa Maria de Fovea was first mentioned in a document by Roger Borsa, son of Robert Guiscard. The current structure began to take shape in 1172 or 1179 under the commission of King William II of Sicily. The cathedral’s design was inspired by the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Troia, reflecting the architectural influences of that era.

Significant transformations occurred in the early 13th century when Emperor Frederick II moved the central administration from Palermo to Foggia. This relocation spurred the redesign of the transept and the alteration of the crypt, elevating the floor level to accommodate these changes. The cathedral underwent a Baroque makeover in the 17th century, which included raising the nave floor and replacing the medieval high walls with barrel vaulting, creating a unified and grand interior space.

In 1731, a devastating earthquake caused severe damage to the cathedral, leading to the collapse of the upper sections and the freestanding bell tower, or campanile, originally built in 1110. The reconstruction efforts in the mid-18th century saw the campanile relocated to its current position. The cathedral was further elevated to the status of a cathedral in 1855 when Foggia became a bishopric. Despite suffering damage during World War II, the cathedral has been meticulously restored, preserving its historical essence while embracing modern resilience.

Architectural Marvels

The west facade of Foggia Cathedral, dating back to the 13th century, is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. It features five vertical, arcade-like elements topped with multiple stepped arches. The central arch, housing the main portal, is twice as wide as the others, flanked by smaller pilasters. The outermost arches contain round windows, adding a touch of elegance to the robust structure. The facade is adorned with a richly decorated cornice, featuring an array of animals, plants, mythical creatures, and human figures, attributed to the master builder Bartolomeo da Foggia.

A hidden gem of the cathedral is the north-side portal, discovered in 1953 after being walled up for centuries. This slightly pointed arch, dating back to around 1225, is larger than the other arches on the north side and is uniquely decorated with a sawtooth pattern, giving it a radiant appearance. The tympanum of this portal features a blessing Christ figure flanked by flying angels, with additional figures of Samson with a lion, a bishop, and a rider, possibly representing Emperor Frederick II or other historical figures.

The Enigmatic Crypt

The crypt of Foggia Cathedral is a unique feature among Apulian cathedrals, extending beneath the entire transept. Unlike typical crypts, it has an irregular bay design. The central square space is supported by four sturdy columns, suggesting a central plan reminiscent of the original structure. Surrounding this central space is another square with shorter, pointed arches leading to pilasters embedded in the crypt walls. The three apses of the central area remain original, while the rest of the crypt reflects 18th-century modifications.

The capitals of the four central columns are particularly noteworthy, showcasing variations of the Corinthian order with distinct individual characteristics. The acanthus leaves are less dense than in classical examples, with each leaf appearing individually crafted. Art historians attribute these capitals to Bartolomeo da Foggia, highlighting the innovative Staufer decoration style of the period.

Interior Splendor and Sacred Relics

Inside, Foggia Cathedral is a baroque hall church with a vaulted nave and no side chapels. Pilasters support the arches of the vault, and the deep apse at the east end spans the entire width of the nave, a product of 18th-century renovations. The transept arms are covered with barrel vaults with lunettes, while the crossing is topped with a flat dome.

One of the most revered relics within the cathedral is the Madonna dei Sette Veli (Madonna of the Seven Veils), a Byzantine icon believed to possess miraculous powers. Housed in a richly decorated silver casket, this image is unveiled for public veneration twice a year during processions through Foggia. According to legend, the icon was discovered in a pond in 1073 under mysterious circumstances and played a significant role in the city's revival. The chapel containing this icon was added during the Baroque transformation of the cathedral in 1672.

Foggia Cathedral is not just a religious edifice but a living chronicle of the city's history, architectural evolution, and cultural heritage. Its walls and relics tell stories of resilience, faith, and artistic excellence, making it an essential destination for anyone exploring the historical heart of Foggia.