Cathedral of San Sabino

The Cathedral of San Sabino, also known locally as the Basilica di San Sabino, is the crown jewel of Canosa di Puglia, a town steeped in history and charm in the Apulia region of Italy. This magnificent basilica stands as a testament to the town's rich cultural and religious heritage, drawing visitors from far and wide to marvel at its architectural splendor and historical significance.

The Historical Tapestry of the Cathedral of San Sabino

The origins of the Cathedral of San Sabino trace back to the Lombard era, specifically between the 7th and 8th centuries. It was commissioned by Duke Arechi II following the abandonment of the early Christian sites of San Leucio and San Pietro. Initially dedicated to Saints John and Paul, the cathedral was rededicated to Saint Sabino on September 7, 1101, by Pope Paschal II, nearly four centuries after the saint's relics were moved to the crypt beneath the basilica by Bishop Pietro in the 8th century.

Throughout its long history, the Cathedral of San Sabino has undergone numerous transformations. One of the most significant periods of change occurred after the devastating earthquake of 1851. The subsequent restoration and expansion, led by architect Federico Santacroce, included the extension of the Latin cross plan, the reconstruction of the façade using local tuff stone, and the addition of a three-level bell tower topped with a semi-spherical dome. The restoration efforts were completed in 2005, ensuring that the cathedral continues to stand as a beacon of faith and history.

Architectural Marvels and Artistic Treasures

As you approach the Cathedral of San Sabino, you'll be struck by its imposing yet elegant façade. The central architrave of the expanded structure bears the symbol of the Altavilla family, a nod to its historical patrons. The cathedral's Latin cross plan is covered by five low sail domes and features an apse illuminated by three windows, the central one adorned with a stained-glass depiction of Saint Sabino, showcasing the Romanesque-Byzantine style.

Stepping inside, you'll find yourself in a space of serene beauty and historical resonance. The cathedral's interior is characterized by its simplicity and grandeur, with white marble flooring and walls devoid of frescoes. The five vaults rest on arches supported by a total of eighteen columns made of various marbles, including Persian marble, granite, and cipollino. Six of these columns, adorned with Corinthian capitals, were salvaged from ruined monuments, adding a layer of historical depth to the structure.

The Crypt and Chapels

The crypt beneath the presbytery is a sacred space, serving as the reliquary for Saint Sabino. The chapels along the right nave are interconnected and house a variety of religious artifacts and artworks. The first chapel from the entrance contains a baptismal font, while the second features an altar and a painting by Luigi Liberato Buonvino dedicated to Madonna della Fonte, whose icon arrived in Canosa after the First Crusade. This chapel also holds the bronze doors of the adjacent mausoleum of Bohemond. The third chapel is home to a wooden statue and a painting of Saint Alphonsus Maria de' Liguori, along with the tomb of Blessed Father Antonio Maria Losito (1838-1917).

On the left nave, a resin statue of Saint Sabino precedes three chapels. The first contains the cathedral's treasury, including relics, chalices, crucifixes, and a silver bust of Saint Sabino, secured behind an iron grate. The second chapel is dedicated to Saint Anthony but features a painting of Saint Francis of Assisi. The third chapel, dedicated to Saint Anne, houses the tomb of Archbishop Francesco Minerva of Lecce (1904-2004). The left arm of the Latin cross holds two additional chapels: one dedicated to the Holy Sacrament, containing a statue of the Sacred Heart, and another dedicated to Saint Joseph.

The Presbytery and Pulpit

The presbytery of the Cathedral of San Sabino is a sight to behold, with its high altar featuring a ciborium set on a marble base with three steps. The altar is crowned by a canopy supported by four red marble columns with Corinthian capitals, forming an octagonal pyramid structure. This design is reminiscent of the altar in the Basilica of San Nicola in Bari.

The marble pulpit, attributed to Acceptus (11th century), stands on four octagonal columns. Atop the pulpit is a lectern shaped like an eagle, also made of marble, adding to the cathedral's artistic richness. Near the apse, you'll find the episcopal throne, likely crafted by Romualdo and commissioned by Bishop Ursone (1080-1089). This Byzantine-inspired chair rests on two stylized elephants and features a bas-relief slab depicting two eagles at its base.

The Organ and Recent Discoveries

On the cantoria in the counter-façade, the cathedral houses an organ built by Pacifico Inzoli in 1913, which was restored in 2006 by his descendants. This pneumatic transmission instrument boasts two keyboards with 58 notes each and a 27-note pedalboard, adding a melodious charm to the cathedral's liturgical services.

In 2015, during renovation work, a painting depicting Saint William of Vercelli, Saint Benedict, and the Virgin Mary was discovered. Although the frame indicated the year 1863, archival research at the Montevergine archive suggested that the painting might be much older, possibly part of a Benedictine legacy from the Monastery of Montevergine in Canosa, dating back to 1279.

The Cathedral of San Sabino is more than just a place of worship; it is a living museum of history, art, and faith. Its walls echo the stories of centuries past, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the spiritual and cultural legacy of Canosa di Puglia. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a pilgrim, a visit to the Cathedral of San Sabino promises to be an unforgettable journey into the heart of Italy's rich heritage.