San Francesco d'Assisi, Gothic church in Terra Vecchia district, Cerignola, Italy.
San Francesco d'Assisi is a Gothic church in the Terra Vecchia district of Cerignola with a main entrance leading to three naves, including one central nave and a smaller left nave. The structure is crowned by six octagonal domes, five of which display decorative pinecone motifs.
Construction began between the 11th and 12th centuries, as confirmed by an entrance inscription dated 1200. This early founding period established it as a religious and cultural center that would shape the city for centuries to come.
This church serves as the mother church of Cerignola and belongs to the Catholic Diocese of Cerignola-Ascoli Satriano. It remains a spiritual center for the local community and shapes the religious life of the city.
The best time to visit is during cooler morning or evening hours, especially in warmer months. Access is generally straightforward, but visitors should wear respectful clothing and be mindful of any religious activities taking place.
The central dome features a distinctive stone eagle facing west that supports a human figure on its back. This unusual sculptural element is rarely seen and gives the church a special character among the region's many religious buildings.
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