Completed in the 12th century, Bari Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Sabino) is a fine example of Romanesque architecture. Less famous than the nearby Basilica di San Nicola, it is nevertheless the principal church of the city. Admire the elegant white façade, which features three wooden portals, a large rose window and small arched windows.
Relax in the charming Piazza dell’Odegitria and take in the view of the old buildings surrounding the square. Sit at a café to enjoy the local buzz in this historic square or return after nightfall to admire the church’s brightly lit façade. Spot the slim bell tower that rises beside the apse at the rear of the cathedral.
Venture inside and walk past the wooden pews framed by the white-and-grey pillars and arches that line the flanks of the nave. The floor at the center of the nave contains an impressive circular pattern, which separates the pews nearer the front. Admire the model of Christ on the Cross and the paintings in the side altar.
The structure was built atop the ruins of a former Byzantine church. Note the remnants of the original site’s floor in the transept. The church is dedicated to St. Sabinus, who was a bishop of Canosa. Peruse the collection of his relics, which are preserved in the crypt. You will also find a marble artwork depicting Our Lady Odegitria.
Explore the archeological site beneath the church to discover intriguing relics, such as the snake-like mosaic of Timoteo. Visit the adjacent Diocesan Museum for its array of ecclesiastical artifacts that belong to the church.
Bari Cathedral is on the city’s northern outcrop, which juts into the Adriatic Sea. It is in an area dense with historical structures, such as the Basilica San Nicola, the Norman Castle and the Chiesa San Marco Dei Veneziani. Walk north from the Bari Centrale train station for 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) to get here. The cathedral and its adjoining museum are free to enter.
