Trani Cathedral

Trani Cathedral, also known locally as Cattedrale di Trani or Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, is a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture located in the charming coastal town of Trani in Puglia, Italy. Often referred to as the Queen of the Cathedrals of Puglia, this stunning edifice is not only a place of worship but also a popular destination for cultural tourism, drawing visitors from around the globe with its unique charm and historical significance.

The History of Trani Cathedral

The origins of Trani Cathedral are deeply intertwined with the legend of Saint Nicholas the Pilgrim, who is said to have arrived in Trani shortly before his death. Following his passing, numerous miracles were attributed to him, leading to his canonization by Pope Urban II. The construction of the cathedral began in 1099, on the site of an older church dedicated to Santa Maria della Scala. Recent archaeological excavations have revealed that a place of worship existed here as far back as the 4th century.

The cathedral was built using the distinctive Trani stone, a sedimentary rock known for its light pinkish hue. This stone, quarried locally, gives the cathedral its unique and striking appearance. The construction of the cathedral was a lengthy process, with significant progress made between 1159 and 1186 under the direction of Bishop Bertrando II. The cathedral was consecrated in 1143, even though it was not yet fully completed. The imposing bell tower, which adds to the cathedral's grandeur, was constructed later, primarily between 1230 and 1239, with further additions completed in the mid-14th century.

Exploring Trani Cathedral

Trani Cathedral's location is one of its most remarkable features. Situated right by the sea, it stands isolated from surrounding buildings, making it a prominent landmark visible from both the city and the water. Visitors approach the cathedral via a double flight of steps that lead to the main entrance, which is elevated about five meters above the current street level.

The entrance itself is a sight to behold, featuring a meticulously decorated Romanesque portal influenced by Arab architectural styles. The bronze central door, crafted by Barisano da Trani in 1175, is one of the finest examples of its kind in southern Italy. While the original door is preserved inside the cathedral, a faithful replica graces the exterior entrance.

The western facade of the cathedral is adorned with three large windows and an expansive rose window, whose harmonious arrangement adds to the elegance of the building. The intricate decorations around these openings feature complex interwoven designs with phytomorphic and zoomorphic figures. The cathedral follows the traditional basilica layout with three naves, and the elevated entrance suggests the presence of an important crypt below.

From the rear, the cathedral is characterized by a massive transept facing the sea, complete with three apses. This part of the structure is also adorned with Romanesque blind arches. The lateral facades are decorated with a combination of biforate windows, a rose window on the south side, and a quadriforate window on the north side.

The Interior of Trani Cathedral

Inside, the cathedral's main body is divided into three naves by paired columns supporting the respective matronea. The side naves are covered with cross vaults, while the central nave features exposed wooden trusses. The transept area forms a single space, although the three apses reflect the tripartite division of the main body.

Despite numerous renovations over the centuries, the cathedral retains much of its original Romanesque character, particularly in the lower part of the building. This area includes the crypt of Saint Nicholas, where the saint's relics are housed, and the crypt of Santa Maria, which dates back to the earlier church. The lower church is notable for its elegant Romanesque capitals. Visitors can also access the hypogeum of Saint Leucius, located below sea level and adorned with now-faded frescoes.

Although much of the original mosaic flooring has been lost, fragments remain in the presbytery area, depicting scenes such as the Ascent of Alexander the Great and the Original Sin of Adam and Eve.

The Bell Tower and Unique Architectural Features

The bell tower of Trani Cathedral is a masterpiece in itself. Standing 59 meters tall, it was constructed in stages, with the lower levels built between 1230 and 1239, and the upper levels completed in the mid-14th century. The tower's design exemplifies the Romanesque style, with progressively larger openings as it ascends, from biforate to triforate windows.

One of the most striking features of the bell tower is the large pointed arch at its base, an unusual architectural choice for the Romanesque period. This arch was likely created to facilitate movement in the square in front of the cathedral, which was quite different from today's layout. The tower underwent significant restoration in the 1950s, including a meticulous process of dismantling and reassembling the stone blocks to stabilize the structure.

The Organ and Modern Additions

Trani Cathedral is also home to a magnificent pipe organ, situated in the right arm of the transept. The current organ, built by Francesco Zanin in 2013-2014, incorporates elements from the previous instrument made by the Ruffatti brothers in 1962. The new organ features 46 registers and two consoles, offering a rich and versatile musical experience for visitors and worshippers alike.

In conclusion, Trani Cathedral is a jewel of Romanesque architecture and a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Puglia. Its stunning location, intricate design, and fascinating history make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, Trani Cathedral promises an unforgettable experience.