Amalfi Cathedral
Campania
Amalfi Cathedral, known locally as Duomo di Amalfi or Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea, is a remarkable medieval Roman Catholic cathedral located in the Piazza del Duomo in Amalfi, Italy. Dedicated to the Apostle Saint Andrew, whose relics are preserved in the crypt, the cathedral has served as the seat of the Diocese of Amalfi-Cava de' Tirreni since 1986. Its origins trace back to the 9th and 10th centuries, with multiple architectural additions and renovations reflecting Arab-Norman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The cathedral complex includes the adjoining 9th-century Basilica of the Crucifix and the Paradise Cloister, an exquisite example of Arab-Norman style. The bell tower, notable for its colorful majolica tiles and Arab-Norman arches, served defensive purposes during wartime. The richly decorated 19th-century facade features striped marble, intricate mosaics portraying the triumph of Christ, and delicate Arab-Moorish tracery. Inside, visitors can admire a 13th-century wooden crucifix, a mother-of-pearl crucifix from the Holy Land, and artwork including Andrea dell'Asta's "The Martyrdom of St. Andrew." The cathedral's interior also boasts Egyptian granite columns and remnants of its Romanesque origins. Sixty-two steep steps lead visitors up to the bronze doors cast in Constantinople before 1066, the oldest post-Roman bronze doors in Italy. Amalfi Cathedral remains a vital religious and cultural landmark, embodying centuries of history and artistic heritage.
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Tip: Visit Amalfi Cathedral in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy better light for photography. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during high tourist seasons. Check the official website or local tourist offices for information on guided tours and any available concessions. Comfortable footwear is advised due to the steep steps leading to the entrance.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral's bronze doors, cast in Constantinople before 1066 by Simeon of Syria, are the oldest post-Roman bronze doors in Italy.
- •The bell tower is the most ornate example of medieval towers decorated with brightly colored majolica tiles found only in southern Italy.
- •According to tradition, manna is said to have issued from the bones of Saint Andrew housed in the crypt.
- •The facade's mosaics depicting 'The Triumph of Christ' were designed by Domenico Morelli, with original designs preserved in Amalfi's Town Hall.
History
The cathedral's origins date back to the 9th century when the first church was built on the ruins of a prior temple.
A second church was constructed in the 10th century, and by the 12th century, the two formed a single six-aisle Romanesque church, later reduced to five aisles in the 13th century to build the Paradise Cloister.
The relics of Saint Andrew were brought to Amalfi from Constantinople in 1206 during the Fourth Crusade, and the crypt housing these relics was completed in 1208.
The bell tower was built between the 12th and 13th centuries, featuring Arab-Norman decorative elements.
In 1861, part of the facade collapsed and was rebuilt by architect Errico Alvino in a richly decorated Neo-Arab-Norman style, completed in 1891.
Place Guide
Facade and Steps1891
The cathedral's facade, rebuilt in the late 19th century by Errico Alvino, features striped marble, intricate mosaics depicting religious scenes, and delicate Arab-Moorish window tracery. Visitors ascend 62 wide, steep steps to reach the impressive bronze doors, which were cast in Constantinople before 1066.
Bell Tower12th-13th century
Constructed between the 12th and 13th centuries, the bell tower is topped with a cluster of small towers decorated with colorful majolica tiles forming interlaced Gothic arches in the Arab-Norman style. It is the most ornate medieval bell tower of its kind in southern Italy and was used for defense during wartime.
Crypt of Saint Andrew1208
Located beneath the adjoining Basilica of the Crucifix, the crypt houses the relics of Saint Andrew, brought from Constantinople in 1206. It is a place of profound spiritual significance and pilgrimage.
Interior Artwork and Furnishings13th-18th century
The interior includes a 13th-century wooden crucifix, a mother-of-pearl crucifix from the Holy Land, and a high altar formed from the sarcophagus of Cardinal Peter of Capua. Paintings by Andrea dell'Asta depicting scenes from the life and martyrdom of Saint Andrew adorn the ceiling and altar areas.
Paradise Cloister13th century
An exquisite Arab-Norman style cloister built in the 13th century after reducing the cathedral's aisles, featuring colonnades, arches, and sculptures in a serene garden setting adjacent to the cathedral.
Contact
Phone: 089 873558
