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Cathedral · Bari, Apúlia
Cattedrale di San Sabino
Bari's cathedral, in Apulian Romanesque style, was built between the 12th and 13th centuries over the ruins of older churches. It features a rose window on the façade, a Baroque crypt and remains of medieval mosaics.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cattedrale di San Sabino
The Cattedrale di San Sabino is the duomo (cathedral) of Bari and the seat of the archdiocese of Bari-Bitonto. The present building was erected between the 12th and 13th centuries by Archbishop Rainaldo, after King William I of Sicily ordered the town destroyed in 1156, and it was consecrated in 1292.
The façade is simple, with three portals and a large rose window surrounded by carved figures. Inside, 20th-century restorations removed Baroque additions and restored the Romanesque lines. Beneath the central nave are remains of an earlier church, with a floor mosaic bearing the name of Bishop Andrea, from the 8th century.
The crypt was rebuilt in Baroque style in the 18th century and houses the icon of the Madonna Odegitria, venerated in Bari, and the relics of San Sabino. Next to the cathedral, the old Trulla, the 12th-century baptistery, now serves as the sacristy.
The Museo Diocesano, linked to the cathedral, preserves the Exultet, parchment rolls with liturgical chants and medieval illustrations, including one of the oldest known, from around 1025.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 to 45 minutes; add about 30 minutes for the Exultet museum.
Best time
In the morning or mid-afternoon, outside Mass times. Check the cathedral and museum hours before you go, as they are often different.
How to get there
It's in Bari Vecchia, about 300 metres from the Basilica di San Nicola and a short walk from the Castello Normanno-Svevo. From Bari Centrale station it's about a 20-minute walk.
Tip
Shoulders and knees covered to enter. Notice the mosaic floor visible beneath the nave and go down to the crypt. The route between the cathedral, the castle and the basilica runs through the most traditional alleys of the old town.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cattedrale di San Sabino
What is the difference between the cathedral and the Basilica di San Nicola?
The cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Bari and is dedicated to São Sabino. The Basilica di San Nicola houses the relics of São Nicolau and is entrusted to the Dominicans. Both are Romanesque and are about 300 meters apart.
What are the Exultet?
They are medieval parchment rolls containing the chant of the Easter Vigil and illustrations painted upside down relative to the text, so the faithful could see the images while the deacon read. The cathedral preserves 11th-century examples in the museum attached to it.
Do you have to pay to enter?
There is no charge to enter the cathedral; the museum and some areas may require a ticket. Check before you go.
Can you visit the crypt?
Yes. The crypt, rebuilt in Baroque style, houses the icon of the Madonna Odegitria and the relics of São Sabino. Access may be closed during celebrations.