Symbol of faith and art in the heart of Conversano
Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
A Romanesque masterpiece that tells centuries of history and spirituality
One of the oldest and most fascinating churches in Puglia, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is an unmissable stop for anyone visiting Conversano.
Situated in one of the city’s main squares, this majestic cathedral is a testament to how faith, art and architecture can blend together to create a timeless narrative. An experience to be savoured amidst details carved in stone, medieval charm and profound spirituality.
A journey through art, faith, and historical resilience
Built in the 12th century on the ruins of an ancient early Christian church, the cathedral was commissioned by Bishop Leone and is notable for its majestic Apulian Romanesque architecture.
In the following centuries, it was expanded and enriched with Baroque elements, including side chapels adorned with stucco and gilded friezes.
A dramatic event marks the history of the building: on the night of 10–11 July 1911, a violent fire completely destroyed its interior. The side walls and façades remained intact.
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Only two sacred objects were miraculously saved: the icon of the Madonna della Fonte, patron saint of Conversano, and a large wooden crucifix.
After reconstruction, the cathedral returned to its original appearance, while retaining Gothic and Byzantine elements that make it a rare example of stylistic contamination.
The facade and the three monumental doors
The façade is simple yet elegant, with an imposing gabled structure dominated by a large central rose window dating from the 14th century.
On the sides, two smaller rose windows and three portals adorned with symbols and sculptures:
🔹Great GateThe main portal, adorned with Byzantine motifs, stylophoric lions, Marian iconography and allegorical depictions of sin.
🔹Pilgrim's Gate: lateral, with Saint George slaying the dragon, a symbol of protection and faith.
🔹Gate of Judgmentonce used for funeral ceremonies, it houses the statue of Saint Peter with the keys to Paradise.
An interior full of spirituality
The interior of the cathedral captivates with its austerity. The imposing masonry and bare walls, combined with the changing play of light throughout the day, evoke an atmosphere of solemn silence, typical of medieval religious life.
The Latin cross plan is divided into three naves, supported by large cruciform pillars, which in turn support a 14th-century women’s gallery. Numerous chapels line the side aisles, housing precious works of art.
Two trapdoors in the chancel lead down to the underground chambers of the early Christian basilica: here, geometric frescoes and an ancient catacomb, probably intended for the bishops, can be seen.
ℹ️ Visiting information and times
📍Via Monsignore Lamberti, 3
🕰 Opening hours:
- 10.00-12.00
- 17.00-20.00
For updates on opening hours and guided tours, please contact the Info Point: +39 080 495 6517.
* Please note: The Cathedral Basilica is closed on Mondays in December, on Tuesdays and Thursdays in January, on Mondays in February, on Tuesdays and Fridays in March, and on Tuesdays in April and May.
Why visit the Cathedral
Walking through the naves of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is like experiencing centuries of art, history and spirituality first-hand.
Every detail, from the carved stone to the symbolism of the doors, speaks of a vibrant and faithful community that has managed to rebuild and preserve its greatest treasure. A place where architecture becomes prayer and beauty is transformed into an inner experience.
