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Cathedral · Lecce, Apúlia
Cattedrale di Otranto
Romanesque cathedral from the 11th century in Otranto, about 45 km from Lecce, with a floor mosaic from 1163–1165 that covers the entire nave and the chapel housing the remains of the Martyrs of Otranto.
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 Otranto
Otranto is the easternmost town in Italy, on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, with a historic centre surrounded by walls and an Aragonese castle. The cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Annunziata, was founded in 1068 by the Norman bishop Guglielmo and consecrated in 1088. It blends Byzantine, early-Christian and Romanesque elements.
The main highlight is the floor mosaic, made between 1163 and 1165 by the monk Pantaleone. It covers the central nave and side areas with a huge Tree of Life, biblical scenes, zodiac signs, the months of the year, fantastic animals and even King Arthur. To see it properly, walk slowly along the edges.
In 1480 Ottoman troops captured Otranto. Around 800 residents who refused to renounce their faith were killed, and are remembered as the Martyrs of Otranto. Their remains are in the chapel to the right of the altar, in large display cases. It is a place of remembrance that asks for silence and respect.
The crypt, beneath the presbytery, has dozens of columns with varied capitals, some reused from older buildings. Near the cathedral, the Castello Aragonese overlooks the harbour; the castle gave its name to Horace Walpole's Gothic novel, The Castle of Otranto.
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 45 minutes for the cathedral and the crypt. Half a day or a day for all of Otranto.
Best time
In the morning, before the tour groups. In summer, from June to August, the town gets very crowded because of the beaches; from April to June and in September and October it is usually quieter. Avoid mass times.
How to get there
From Lecce, take the Ferrovie del Sud Est regional train to Otranto, about 1h30, some services require a change at Maglie. By car it's about 45 km. The cathedral sits on the upper part of the historic centre, about a 15-minute walk from the station.
Tip
Shoulders and knees covered. Parts of the mosaic may be cordoned off; respect the marked walkways. Combine the visit with a walk along the walls and the harbour.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cattedrale di Otranto
How long does it take from Lecce to Otranto?
About 1h30 by regional train or around 45 minutes by car.
What does the floor mosaic show?
A large Tree of Life with biblical scenes, the months of the year, the zodiac, fantastic animals and even King Arthur.
Who were the Martyrs of Otranto?
Around 800 residents killed in 1480, after the city's capture by the Ottomans, for refusing to renounce their faith. The remains are in a chapel of the cathedral.
Can you do a day trip?
Yes, by train or car. Check the schedule of the last return train.