Gravina Cathedral

Gravina Cathedral, known locally as Concattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, stands majestically in the charming town of Gravina in Puglia, Italy. This architectural gem is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the rich and diverse history of the region. Recognized as a national monument since 1940 and elevated to the status of a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1993, Gravina Cathedral is a must-visit for any traveler exploring the historical treasures of Puglia.

The Historical Journey of Gravina Cathedral

The story of Gravina Cathedral is a fascinating journey through time. The current structure is the fourth cathedral of the Diocese of Gravina, with its origins tracing back to the 9th century. The first cathedral was the five-naved Church of San Michele delle Grotte, carved into the tufa rock. This was followed by the cathedrals of San Marco and San Giovanni Battista. The present cathedral was initially constructed in 1065 during the Norman rule, showcasing a Romanesque style with Byzantine influences.

The cathedral's early history was tumultuous. It suffered significant damage from various events, including fires around 1447 and a devastating earthquake on the night of December 5, 1456. These calamities nearly obliterated the original structure. However, the resilient spirit of the Gravina community, led by Bishop Matteo D'Aquino and supported by the local chapter and Duke Francesco II Orsini, saw the cathedral rise from the ashes. The reconstruction efforts culminated in the consecration of the cathedral by Bishop Arcasio Ricci on May 9, 1632.

Architectural Splendor

Gravina Cathedral is an architectural marvel, blending late Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The façade, divided into three sections by two pilasters, features three portals. The central portal, although incomplete, is the most prominent and is adorned with a beautiful rose window with a bas-relief of the Assumption of Mary. The lateral portals are embellished with high reliefs and small statues of Christ, with the left portal dated 1495.

The bell tower, completed in 1698 by Cardinal Vincenzo Maria Orsini, adds to the cathedral's grandeur. Its unique cipollone dome is a distinctive feature. The southern entrance of the cathedral is notable for its bas-relief of the Madonna and Child, flanked by statues of Saints Peter and Paul from the late 16th century.

One of the most striking features of the exterior is the cappellone, a two-story structure protruding from the left nave and overlooking the gravina. The lower floor houses the Oratory of the Holy Cross, while the upper floor, at the cathedral's level, is the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament. This chapel also contains the marble tomb of Bishop Arcasio Ricci, with a bust sculpted by Francesco Mochi.

Inside the Cathedral

The interior of Gravina Cathedral is equally captivating. It is designed with three naves separated by columns with reused capitals. The wooden ceiling, intricately carved and gilded in Baroque style, features four large canvases from the 17th century. The side chapels, including one dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, the city's patron saint, are adorned with polychrome marble altars crafted by Neapolitan artist Francesco Cimafonte in the 18th century.

The presbytery houses an impressive wooden choir from 1561 and a grand organ. The sacristy, constructed on the remnants of the old Norman castle, contains a finely inlaid wooden bench from the late 16th century. Beneath the cathedral lies another church, the soccorpo della cattedrale, dedicated to the Holy Cross. This subterranean church, originally an ossuary, was transformed into a place of worship in 1633 by Bishop Arcasio Ricci. It features 16th-century frescoes and a 17th-century stone altar, along with the sepulchral sculptures of local bishops from the 16th century.

The Organs and Bells

Gravina Cathedral is home to two notable pipe organs. The main organ, built in 1907 by Pacifico Inzoli, was later restored by his descendants. This electro-mechanical instrument features two keyboards and a concave-radial pedalboard. The pipes are distributed across various sections of the cathedral, including the choir stalls in the lateral naves.

In the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, there is a smaller pipe organ from 1853, crafted by an anonymous builder. This mechanical organ has a single keyboard and a pedalboard, with its wooden case painted and adorned with a unique display of principal pipes arranged in a single cusp.

The cathedral’s bell tower houses four bells used for liturgical purposes, along with an unused small bell, adding to the cathedral's historical ambiance.

Visiting Gravina Cathedral is not just an exploration of a religious site; it is a journey through centuries of history, art, and faith. Each stone, each sculpture, and each piece of art tells a story of resilience, devotion, and the unyielding spirit of the people of Gravina in Puglia. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a spiritual seeker, Gravina Cathedral offers a rich and fulfilling experience that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.