Trani Cathedral, Romanesque cathedral in Trani, Italy
Trani Cathedral is a Romanesque basilica at the edge of the Adriatic Sea in the Apulian port town of Trani. The structure built from pale limestone rises 59 meters (193 feet) high and features a prominent transept with a central bronze doorway.
Construction began in 1099 at the site of the earlier church of Santa Maria della Scala and was largely completed between 1159 and 1186 under Bishop Bertrando II. The work continued over several decades and shaped the architectural development of the region.
The bronze portal, created by Barisano da Trani in 1175, displays religious scenes through a mixture of Byzantine and Islamic artistic influences. The decorative motifs reflect Mediterranean traditions and bring together elements from multiple cultural streams.
The building stands right at the seafront promenade and is easily reached on foot from the town center. The interior with its multiple levels requires walking stairs, which may be a challenge for some visitors.
The church contains three levels stacked above one another: the main floor, a crypt dedicated to Saint Nicholas below it, and a chamber beneath sea level. This arrangement came from layering different building periods and creates a spatial sequence.
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