Cattedrale di San Sabino (Duomo di Canosa)

The Cathedral of San Sabino in Canosa di Puglia is a Romanesque church with early Christian origins and a history of repeated rebuilding.

Why it matters

The cathedral reflects Canosa's importance as an early Christian centre and preserves architectural material reused from earlier buildings. It was dedicated to the city's patron saint in the early twelfth century.

What to notice

The church has a Latin-cross plan with three naves, a transept and five domes. Reused marble columns stand among brick piers and arches. The medieval ambo and bishop's throne are associated with the workshops of Acceptus and Romualdo, while bronze doors from the Mausoleum of Bohemond are preserved in a side chapel.

Context and history

The church's earliest phase is generally placed between the fourth and sixth centuries, with a possible earlier dedication to Saints John and Paul. The dedication to San Sabino is associated with Pope Paschal II around 1101–1102. Earthquakes and other damage prompted later rebuilding, including a major nineteenth-century campaign that added the neoclassical facade. The cathedral serves today as a co-cathedral.