Salerno Cathedral
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Latest page update: 6 February 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The Salerno Cathedral, or Cattedrale di Santa Maria degli Angeli, San Matteo e Grogorio VII, is the main religious building in the coastal city of Salerno in the southern Italian region of Campania.
The church was completed in 1085 and built in the Romanesque architectural style. Its most famous feature is the underground Crypt of Saint Matthew with its highly elaborate decoration. |
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Salerno Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of San Matteo, is a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture located in the heart of Salerno, a historic city in the Campania region of southern Italy. The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Matthew, the patron saint of the city, and it stands as a key landmark, both spiritually and architecturally, in the region.
The cathedral’s history dates back to the 11th century, when it was originally constructed to house the relics of Saint Matthew, which were brought to Salerno from the Holy Land. The building has undergone several modifications and restorations over the centuries, combining elements of Romanesque, Norman, and Baroque styles, making it a unique and visually rich structure.
The façade of Salerno Cathedral is adorned with intricate carvings, including figures from the Bible and geometric patterns, and is dominated by a large, impressive bronze door depicting scenes from the life of Christ. The cathedral's bell tower, which stands adjacent to the church, is another iconic feature, rising in multiple levels and showcasing a blend of architectural styles. The tower provides a commanding view of the surrounding city and the Mediterranean coast.
Inside, the cathedral’s interior is equally stunning, with a spacious nave divided by elegant columns and arches. The floor is decorated with beautiful mosaics, while the apse features a grand mosaic depicting Christ Pantocrator, a common image in Byzantine religious art. The crypt, which houses the relics of Saint Matthew, is one of the most significant areas of the cathedral. It is a deeply revered site, attracting both pilgrims and visitors from all over the world. The atmosphere inside is solemn and reverential, with soft light filtering through the stained glass windows, creating an atmosphere of serenity and spirituality.
The cathedral’s history dates back to the 11th century, when it was originally constructed to house the relics of Saint Matthew, which were brought to Salerno from the Holy Land. The building has undergone several modifications and restorations over the centuries, combining elements of Romanesque, Norman, and Baroque styles, making it a unique and visually rich structure.
The façade of Salerno Cathedral is adorned with intricate carvings, including figures from the Bible and geometric patterns, and is dominated by a large, impressive bronze door depicting scenes from the life of Christ. The cathedral's bell tower, which stands adjacent to the church, is another iconic feature, rising in multiple levels and showcasing a blend of architectural styles. The tower provides a commanding view of the surrounding city and the Mediterranean coast.
Inside, the cathedral’s interior is equally stunning, with a spacious nave divided by elegant columns and arches. The floor is decorated with beautiful mosaics, while the apse features a grand mosaic depicting Christ Pantocrator, a common image in Byzantine religious art. The crypt, which houses the relics of Saint Matthew, is one of the most significant areas of the cathedral. It is a deeply revered site, attracting both pilgrims and visitors from all over the world. The atmosphere inside is solemn and reverential, with soft light filtering through the stained glass windows, creating an atmosphere of serenity and spirituality.
Duomo di Salerno/Cattedrale di Santa Maria degli Angeli
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City: Salerno
Province: Salerno Region: Campania Completed: 1085 Architectural style: Romanesque Close by: Amalfi Coast, Cava de Tirreni, Battipaglia, Eboli Recommended accommodation: Hotel Plaza |
