Monastero di Santa Maria di Colonna, Romanesque monastery in Trani, Italy
Monastero di Santa Maria di Colonna is a Romanesque monastery located on the Capo Colonna peninsula in Trani, featuring a three-nave church with a perforated rose window. The structure displays characteristic Apulian Romanesque style details, including squared columns that support the vaults.
Goffredo Siniscalco founded the monastery in the early 11th century and entrusted it to Benedictine monks. The building suffered multiple attacks from Saracen pirates, which shaped its early development.
The name refers to the columns that support the church structure, giving it a sturdy appearance. Today visitors can see how the place is actively used by worshippers who gather for services and maintain the buildings in regular religious practice.
The monastery is located on the Capo Colonna peninsula and is best reached on foot through Trani's old town. Visitors should verify entrance details and note that access may be limited during worship services.
Archaeological excavations near the monastery have revealed remains of the Iapygian civilization, including ancient walls and pottery. These discoveries point to a much older settlement history at this coastal location, long before the monastery was established.
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