The exact historical record of Saint Peter and Saint Paul “landing” in Puglia and directly establishing the Catholic religion there is not as clearly documented as their presence and martyrdom in Rome. However, Christian tradition and archaeological evidence suggest early Christianization of the region.

Apostolic Connections (Traditional Accounts):

Saint Peter:

While tradition strongly places Saint Peter’s primary ministry and martyrdom in Rome, there are local traditions in Puglia that speak of his passage through the region. For instance, in Ruvo di Puglia, local legend claims that Saint Peter passed through the town twice in 44 AD, converting pagans and later reconverting those who had reverted to paganism, leaving a Saint Cletus as the first bishop of the city and the Apulian region. These accounts highlight the early belief in apostolic influence on the region’s Christianization.

Saint Paul:

Saint Paul’s journey to Rome is well-documented in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 28). He traveled by sea and landed at Pozzuoli (near Naples), and then proceeded overland to Rome via the Appian Way. While the route tis not explicitly stated in the biblical narrative, archeological studies have located the likely route of the Appian way through Puglia.  In addition the importance of the port cities as pilgrim routes cannot be overlooked.

Early Christian Communities in Puglia:

Regardless of specific apostolic landings, Puglia, as a strategic region in Magna Graecia and later a part of the Roman Empire, would have seen the arrival of Christianity relatively early.

• Maritime Routes: Puglia’s coastal location meant it was connected to the Eastern Mediterranean, where Christianity first flourished. Trade and travel would have facilitated the spread of the new faith.
• Jewish Communities: Like many Roman provinces, Puglia had established Jewish communities. Early Christian evangelization often began in synagogues, and the presence of these communities would have provided a fertile ground for the initial spread of Christianity.
• Archaeological Evidence: Evidence of early Christian presence in Puglia can be seen in:
  • Catacombs and Rock Churches: Places like the Necropolis of San Nicola di Myra in Vieste and the Crypt of Santa Cristina in Carpignano Salentino provide insights into early Christian rock settlements and worship, often featuring ancient Byzantine frescoes.
  • Early Dioceses: The establishment of early dioceses in towns like Ruvo di Puglia points to organized Christian communities from ancient times.

Development of the Catholic Church in Puglia:

Over the centuries, the Catholic Church in Puglia developed and adapted to various historical influences:

• Byzantine Influence: Due to its geographical proximity and historical ties with the Byzantine Empire, Puglia experienced a strong influence of Orthodox Christianity, particularly in its liturgy and monastic traditions, for many centuries. This is evident in the presence of Italo-Greek monks and numerous rock churches with Byzantine characteristics.
• Norman Conquest: With the arrival of the Normans in the 11th century, Latin Rite Christianity gradually gained prominence. The Normans built impressive cathedrals and castles, many of which became centers of Catholic life. The bringing of the relics of Saint Nicholas to Bari in 1087, and the construction of the Basilica di San Nicola, cemented Bari’s role as a major pilgrimage site and a key center of Catholic devotion, bridging Eastern and Western Christian traditions.
• Later Periods: Through the Renaissance, Baroque, and subsequent periods, Puglia’s Catholic identity continued to evolve, with the construction of grand churches, the establishment of seminaries, and the flourishing of religious orders.

Spectacular Religious sites in North Puglia

 

 

Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo in Monte Sant’Angelo

The Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo in Monte Sant’Angelo is a historically significant destination that offers a profound experience for various types of visitors.   It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site: It’s part of the “Longobards in Italy, Places of Power (568-774 AD)” UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its exceptional historical and architectural importance. This alone signals its global significance.

The Sanctuary is an Ancient Pilgrimage Site since the 5th century.  The heart of the sanctuary is a natural cave where, according to tradition, the Archangel Michael appeared multiple times. This “Celestial Basilica” is one of the ten most beautiful sacred caves in the world, as recognized by National Geographic. The atmosphere inside is said to be incredibly suggestive, spiritual, and rich in history.  The Sanctuary was a crucial stop on the Via Francigena and is part of a larger network of Michaelic sanctuaries across Europe.

 

 

 

Basilica di San Nicola in Bari

The Basilica di San Nicola in Bari is a significant and fascinating place to visit.  It houses the relics of Saint Nicholas, also known as Saint Nicholas of Myra, the historical figure who inspired the legend of Santa Claus/Father Christmas. His remains were brought to Bari in 1087, and the basilica was built specifically to house them.  The arrival of Saint Nicholas’ relics profoundly shaped Bari’s identity and development, making it an important religious and economic center in the Middle Ages.

Who was St. Nicholas?

Saint Nicholas was an early Christian Bishop of the ancient Greek city of Myra (modern-day Turkey). During his life he gained the reputation for his acts of charity and protecting the vulnerable.  His reputation grew as a great miracle worker.  Nicholas had the heart of a servant as he gave coins to girls without a dowry, and gold to those in poverty.

On December 6th (the Feast of St. Nicholas), in many countries today, children wake up to find coins (a remembrance of the coins he gave to girls), and oranges (representing the gold he gave to the poor) in their shoes.  The tradition of these legends of generosity led to the Santa Claus celebrated on Christmas day today.

 

What is the connection of St. Nicholas and Bari Italy?

It is said that he never traveled outside of the Middle East, and never to Italy.  After Nicholas’ death, sometime between 333 and 343, his Demre, Myra(Turkey) tomb became an international destination for Christian pilgrims.

How & Why did St. Nicholas’ remains end up in Bari, Italy?

The town of Bari was struggling- it needed a miracle.  Italian merchants sent an expedition of three ships in 1087.  In fact, Venetian soldiers had also set sail to steel the relics- but by the time the Venetians arrived, the Bari sailors had already stolen the the major bones-* The gig was up.

The 62 sailors from Bari, Italy, came ashore, broke into the tomb and hastily removed the major bones.  They took them on board their ship and delivered them to Bari on May 9.  These early tomb raiders were considered heroes and received concessions from the church.

• A chair in the Basilica for the sailor and his wife;
• A grave around the outside wall of the Basilica;
• A percentage from the income of the church at the Feast of the Translation;
• Help from the Basilica if the sailor fell into extreme poverty;
• Possible entrance into clerical life without payment;
• If accepted into clerical life, the St Nicholas clergy should give him a “benefice” (a guaranteed payment in exchange for fixed prayers).

Many of the epitaphs memorializing the sailor’s graves can still be seen on the churches outside walls.

*10 years later the Venetians broke in to the original tomb in Myra and stole the remaining bones of St. Nicholas

Did Bari get a St. Nicholas miracle?

Yes they did.  Two years after the arrival of the relics, Pope Urban officially inaugurated the Basilica di San Nicola, and the town of Bari started welcoming throngs of religious pilgrims, raising the stature and the revenue of the city.

In 2017, Bari loaned some St. Nicholas relics to Russia. More than a million people waited in line to see the relics in Moscow, with lines stretching up to five miles .

 

The Basilica is an outstanding example of Pugliese-Romanesque architecture, one of the first Norman churches built in southern Italy. Its construction began in 1087 and was largely completed by 1197.  Inside, you’ll find a grand nave with granite columns and pilasters, a magnificent 13th-century ciborium (the oldest in Puglia) over the altar, and a gilded 17th-century wooden ceiling. The crypt, with its 26 columns featuring Byzantine and Romanesque capitals, is particularly striking. Thius church is a Must-see.

 

 

 

Cathedral Basilica of Saint Mary of the Assumption in Foggia

You will want to see The “Madonna dei Sette Veli” (Madonna of the Seven Veils). In 11th Century Foggia, local farmers saw 3 miraculous flames over a bog.  The farmers were mystified so they dug at the site, and found a large table buried in the mud.  They learned that it was actually a Byzantine icon that had been somewhat preserved in the water and mud.  The image was cleaned and cloaked with veils.  Over time pilgrims came to see the icon- though the portal feature was black and indiscernible- until 1731 when the Virgin Mary’s white face appeared- and kept appearing until 1745.  Both St. Alphonsus and St. Padre Pio of Pietreclina visited the icon- and they both saw apparitions of Mary’s face in the icon.   This icon is central to the city’s identity and is associated with its very origins. Pilgrims and art enthusiasts alike are drawn to witness this significant religious artifact.

The Cathedral was originally built in Apulian-Romanesque style in the 12th century, the Foggia Cathedral underwent extensive Baroque restoration after an earthquake in 1731. This means you’ll experience a fascinating architectural journey, observing the sturdy Romanesque exterior elements alongside the ornate and dramatic Baroque interior.   The cathedral has witnessed centuries of Foggia’s history, including devastating earthquakes and periods of rebuilding. It’s a testament to the resilience of the city and its enduring faith.

 

 

 

The Sanctuary of Saint Pio of Pietrelci

The Sanctuary of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, located in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy, is a profound destination for a variety of reasons, appealing to both religious pilgrims and those interested in history, architecture, or simply a unique cultural experience.

Saint Padre Pio: The sanctuary is dedicated to Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, one of the most beloved and revered Catholic saints of the 20th century. Padre Pio was a Capuchin friar known for his piety, compassion, and particularly for bearing the stigmata (the wounds of Christ).  He lived in San Giovanni Rotondo from 1916 until his death in 1968. He gained a massive following due to his reported mystical experiences, prophecies, bi-location, and miraculous healings.

Pilgrims visit to pay their respects, seek spiritual blessings, and connect with his enduring legacy of faith and charity.  The sanctuary houses the body of Saint Padre Pio, which is on display for veneration in a crypt within the modern church. This is a central point of pilgrimage for many.

 Religious Sites within the Complex:

• Old Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie: Adjacent to the modern sanctuary is the older church where Padre Pio celebrated Mass and heard confessions for many years. This provides a more intimate glimpse into his daily life and ministry.  You will also see the remains of Brother Daniele Natale
• The Confessional: The confessional used by Padre Pio, where he spent long hours hearing confessions, has been preserved and is on display for visitors.
• Capuchin Monastery: You can also visit the Capuchin friary where Padre Pio lived, including his humble cell.
• Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza: Padre Pio founded this large hospital in 1956 to provide care for the sick and suffering. It’s a testament to his compassion and remains one of Italy’s most advanced medical facilities.
• Via Crucis: A peaceful Way of the Cross (Via Crucis) with bronze and marble stations is located on a hillside near the hospital, offering a meditative path for prayer.
• Padre Pio’s feast day (September 23rd)

Brother Daniele Natale:  Brother Daniele Natale (born Michele Natale) was an Italian Capuchin friar, born on March 11, 1919, in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy. He died on July 6, 1994, in the same town. He is widely known as a spiritual son and close friend of Padre Pio.

In 1952 Brother Daniele was diagnosed with severe cancer. He sought medical help in Rome, where he underwent surgery. During the procedure, he went into a coma for 3 days, and then died. He was veiled and prayed over.  Three hours later, to the astonishment of everyone, he suddenly revived.

Brother Daniele claimed that during those three hours, he stood before God’s throne and received a three-hour sentence in purgatory. He initially rejoiced, thinking he would soon be with God, but the pains he experienced were described as “atrocious and terrible,”. He stated that these three hours felt like 300 years.  During this time, he reported seeing the Virgin Mary and Padre Pio. He pleaded with them to return to Earth so he could dedicate his life to God and be freed from the flames of purgatory. Through their intercession, he was granted this wish and returned to life. His experience had a profound impact, even leading his doctor, Ricardo Moretti, to convert to Catholicism.

Brother Daniele’s life after this event was marked by his renewed dedication to God. His process of beatification and canonization began with the opening of the diocesan inquiry into his life and heroic virtues on July 7, 2012.

 

 

 

Cathedral of Trani

The Cathedral of Trani, also known as the Cattedrale di San Nicola Pellegrino, is a truly captivating destination and highly recommended for visitors to Puglia, Italy.  The Seaside Location is arguably its most unique and striking feature. The cathedral is dramatically situated right on the seafront, almost appearing to float on the water. Made of local Trani stone, which has a beautiful light pinkish-white hue, it positively glows in the Apulian sun, especially at dawn or sunset. Its position, where one might expect a lighthouse, gives it an almost ethereal quality and provides incredible photographic opportunities.

The cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Puglia. Its elegant and simple lines, along with its intricate details, make it a true artistic and architectural marvel. You’ll appreciate the blind arches, the beautiful rose window, and the impressive and panoramic bell tower. The cathedral’s construction began in 1099 to house the relics of Saint Nicholas the Pilgrim. Its existence speaks to Trani’s prominence as a cultural and economic hub in the Middle Ages, with strong ties to the Maritime Republics and serving as a departure point for the Crusades.

Magnificent original bronze doors, crafted by the renowned 12th-century sculptor Barisano da Trani, are preserved inside the cathedral. These doors feature 32 panels in low relief depicting sacred and secular subjects, including religious events and figures from the Old and New Testaments.

The cathedral is a complex of three interconnected levels, offering a journey through centuries of history:

 

• • Upper Church: The main cathedral, featuring a nave, aisles, and an elegant women’s gallery. While its interior reflects typical Norman simplicity, you can still find fragments of original 12th-century floor mosaics depicting fascinating scenes like the allegory of Alexander the Great flying to heaven and the original sin of Adam and Eve.
  • Crypt of Saint Nicholas: Located directly beneath the main church, this bright and spacious crypt houses the relics of Saint Nicholas the Pilgrim, the city’s patron saint. It’s a surprisingly well-lit space with numerous marble columns and elegant cross vaults.
  • Hypogeum of Saint Leucius: Descending even further, a meter and a half below sea level, you’ll find this ancient underground cave, which served as a sacellum of an early Christian church dating back to the 4th century. It features some original, albeit faded, frescoes.

 

 

 

 

Must- See Religious sites in South Puglia

 

 

Basilica di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, Galatina

 

This beautiful church, built in the 14th century, is known for its stunning frescoes and architecture.  The Basilica di Santa Caterina d’ Alessandria is important because it houses the relics of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a revered Christian saint and martyr.  Saint Catherine is considered one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers (The 14 Holy Helpers are a group of Catholic saints who were believed to be particularly powerful intercessors in times of trouble and illness.)  Saint Catherine is a patron saint of students, philosophers, preachers, and women, among others.

Santa Caterina’s is an amazing example of Baroque architecture in southern Italy.  In addition, Gothic and Apulian Romanesque styles reflect the diverse cultural influences of the region.  The basilica is built in the shape of a Latin cross, with a central nave and two side aisles. The exterior features a beautiful façade decorated with a central rose window, intricate carvings and statues.

The interior of the basilica is impressive, with a grand altar and breathtaking frescoes adorning the walls and ceiling- so many that it is sometimes compared to the church of St. Francis of Assisi. The colors and images are magnificent and you can see where ancient graffiti appears on a few. The altar is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria, the patron saint of the basilica. The nave is lined with ornate chapels, each dedicated to a different saint or religious figure.  This ancient basilica contains stunning, bright frescoes, so many that it is sometimes compared to the church of St. Francis of Assisi.

 

 

Who was Saint Catherine of Alexandria?

Santa Caterina d’ Alessandria, also known as Saint Catherine of Alexandria, was a Christian saint and virgin martyr who lived in the early 4th century. She is famous for her unwavering faith and staunch defense of Christianity, as well as her intellectual prowess. According to legend, she was highly educated and engaged in debates with pagan philosophers, ultimately converting many of them to Christianity. She is also known for her martyrdom, during which she was tortured and eventually executed by Emperor Maxentius in the early 4th century. She was sentenced to death because she refused to renounce her Christian faith and worship the Roman gods.  Saint Catherine of Alexandria is recognized as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers in the Roman Catholic Church and is venerated as a patron saint of scholars, students, philosophers, and unmarried women. Her feast day is celebrated on November 25th.

 

Stolen Relics?

The finger of St. Catherine

Legend has it that Raimondello went to visit the Holy Land to see the relics and Sanctuary of Santa Catherine d’Alexandria.   He kissed the hand of the Saint, and actually bit off her finger- to bring the relic to Galatina.  Raimondello knew that possession of such an important relic would raise the status of his church- which was then designated as a Basilica by the Pope.

 

Following his return from the Holy Land he commissioned the church and had it built between 1383 and 1385.  With the Holy relic of St. Catherine, Galatina became an important destination for pilgrims -then and now.   Raimondello died in 1406, and his wife, Maria d’Enghien, continued the work on the basilica.

The Basilica di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria remains an important religious and cultural site in Galatina, attracting visitors from all over the world to admire its stunning architecture and pay homage to Saint.  The basilica is an important pilgrimage site for devotees of the saint, and her remains are still venerated there today.

 

 

 

 

 

Church of the Holy Souls in Purgatory (Madonna delle Grazie), Galatina

This sacred space is dedicated to the souls in purgatory and the Virgin Mary.   Catholic Purgatory churches are where you went to pray for people who may not be in Heaven or Hell (limbo).  The Catholic church seems to have de-emphasized Purgatory in recent years.

This Octagonal church was constructed in the early 18th century.  You will see skeletons on the exterior and on the altar.  The skeletons are symbolic representations of mortality and the journey of the soul after death.

The interior is made up of a single high nave, with the characteristic coffered ceiling, with an octagonal plan, horizontally scanned in three orders and illuminated by six large, richly sculpted windows adorned with pairs of angels with cornucopias.   the High Altar there is a large canvas depicting the Virgin pouring the “suffrage” to extinguish the flames of the Souls who, after having served their sentence, are lifted from Purgatory.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cathedral of Otrano

The Otranto Cathedral was founded in 1068 on the remains of a Messapian village. It highlights different architectural styles including Byzantine, early Christian and Romanesque elements. In 1480, the Turks damaged and briefly transformed the church into a mosque. In the right nave, in seven large cupboards are preserved the bones of the Holy Martyrs of Otranto. These are the remains of nearly eight hundred people massacred by the Turks for refusing to renounce their Christian faith.

Dating from 1163 to 1170, the floor mosaic covers 600 square meters, and is one of the largest and best preserved Mosaics in Europe.   This Masterpiece was intricately designed to depict the Bible, patrology and history of man, starting from the expulsion from the Eden of Adam and Eve to the Last Judgement.  A legible inscription tells us that Gionata, the Arch-Bishop over the Archdiocese of Otranto commissioned the work, and a high priest, Pantaleone was the designer and architect of the beautiful floor.  Pantaleone’s name was often linked to the Abby of St Nicholas in Casole- an Abby known for great wisdom and culture.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                            The story of Samson                                                       The story of Adam and Eve being evicted from the garden

The Cathedral crypt winds under the apse, the presbytery and part of the hall.  It is a miniature of the famous Cistern of Theodosius or the Mosque of Córdoba. The crypt is built on 42 columns of differing styles. The year of origin dates back to the 11th century or earlier.

 

 

 

Basilica di Santa Croce in Lecce

The Basilica di Santa Croce in Lecce is a captivating and essential visit for anyone exploring Puglia, but for entirely different reasons than its Florentine namesake. It is the epitome of Lecce Baroque (Barocco Leccese)

 

 

• The Facade is a Masterpiece: This is the absolute star of the show. The Basilica di Santa Croce is the most celebrated and extravagant example of Lecce Baroque, a unique architectural style characterized by its incredibly rich, ornate, and almost whimsical sculptural decoration.  Prepare to be mesmerized by the sheer detail. The facade is a riot of figures: mythological creatures, fantastical animals, putti (cherubs), garlands of fruits and flowers, allegorical representations, and human figures, all carved from the soft, golden pietra leccese (Lecce stone).
• Symbolism and Allegory: Every carving tells a story or represents a symbol. For example, you’ll see figures seemingly burdened by the balcony, representing various powers or concepts, and the famous rose window is surrounded by enigmatic faces and symbols. It’s a feast for the eyes and the mind.  The basilica’s construction spanned over two centuries (starting in 1549 and completed in 1695), with various architects contributing, including the renowned Francesco Antonio Zimbalo and Giuseppe Zimbalo. This long process resulted in a truly unique and evolving design.
• Beyond the Facade: While the exterior is undeniably the highlight, the interior also boasts significant Baroque elements. It features a Latin cross plan and numerous altars (17 in total), each with its own artistic merit.  Look up to admire the rich wooden coffered ceiling in the main nave. The side chapels are home to beautiful paintings and highly decorative altars, such as the one dedicated to St. Francis of Paola by Francesco Antonio Zimbalo. There’s also an intimate altar containing a relic of the True Cross.

• LeccEcclesiae Ticket: The Basilica di Santa Croce is usually part of a combined ticket called “LeccEcclesiae.” This allows you to visit several other important Baroque churches and sites in Lecce, including the Duomo (Cathedral), Chiesa di Santa Chiara, Chiesa di San Matteo, and the Museo di Arte Sacra (MuDAS). This offers excellent value and a comprehensive understanding of Lecce’s Baroque heritage.

 

 

 

 

 

Santuario del Santissimo Crocifisso della Pieta, Galatone

Exceptional Baroque Architecture: Like Lecce’s famous Basilica di Santa Croce, the Santuario in Galatone is a magnificent example of Salentine Baroque. It was built between 1683 and 1694 after a previous church on the site collapsed. Its facade is a multi-layered, highly decorative masterpiece, showcasing the intricate carvings and sculptural elements typical of the region. It’s considered one of the most important 17th-century architectural examples in the province.  The interior of the church is also richly adorned with valuable canvases by various artists, a notable organ, and a wooden coffered ceiling, all contributing to the grandeur of the space.

Miraculous Icon of the Crucifix: The sanctuary was built to house and venerate a Byzantine icon from the 14th century depicting the Santissimo Crocifisso della Pietà (Most Holy Crucifix of Pity). This icon is central to the church’s history and significance, as numerous miraculous events are attributed to it. The devotion to this icon has historically drawn many pilgrims to Galatone. One famous miracle involved the image seemingly recomposing itself after being shattered during the 1683 collapse of the previous church.  The sanctuary’s history is deeply intertwined with the faith and devotion of the local people. It was elevated to a pontifical sanctuary by Pope Pius VI in 1796, underscoring its importance as a pilgrimage site. The stories of miracles and the continuous stream of pilgrims highlight its spiritual significance.

 

 

Other Great Religious Sites

 

Purgatory Churches of Southern Italy

 

 

 

Via Francigena del Sud (Pilgrimage routes of Puglia)