Behind the walls of this important church are the relics of a saint and paintings and sculptures from the 17th century and beyond.
The Cathedral of San Cataldo has been a place of worship for Catholics for almost 1,000 years. Inside this 11th-century building are the remains of Taranto's revered patron saint and many religious works of art that are hundreds of years old.
The basilica was built on the site of an earlier cathedral, which itself was constructed on a previous Christian settlement. It is dedicated to St. Cataldo, a 7th-century Irish monk who was shipwrecked off the southern coast of Italy and eventually became Taranto’s bishop.
Before going inside, look over the beautiful 18th-century Baroque façade. There are carvings of angels and saints and above the central window is a statue of St. Cataldo.
After entering the building, study the frescoes and works of art in the vestibule. These include an 18th-century depiction of St. Cataldo resuscitating a dying man and a 17th-century painting of the saint entering the city. Nearby is a marble baptismal font that is believed to date back to the 10th century.
Walk down the naves, past columns with capitals decorated with many motifs, including animals, pine cones and dancing angels. Examine the floor mosaic, the subject of which is Alexander the Great being carried up into the sky by two griffins.
Stop by the Baroque Chapel of St. Cataldo, richly adorned with multicolored marble and featuring niches filled with statues. This is where the remains of the saint are kept. Go to the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, which is also decorated in the Baroque style. From the central nave, take the stairs down into the crypt to view the 12th-century frescoes on its walls.
The Cathedral of San Cataldo is situated in the historical center of Taranto. You can get here by taking any local bus from the city’s Central Station. The church is open every day from morning until early evening, although it is closed for a few hours in the afternoon.
