Cagliari Cathedral
Sardegna
Cagliari Cathedral, officially named the Cathedral of Saint Mary and Saint Cecilia, stands in the historic Castello district of Sardinia's capital. Originally built in the 13th century by the Pisans in Pisan-Romanesque style, it became the seat of the archbishop in 1258 after the destruction of the former capital's cathedral. The cathedral features a Latin cross plan formed by a 14th-century transept addition and underwent significant Baroque renovations in the 17th and 18th centuries, including a central dome and lavish interior decorations. In the 1930s, its façade was rebuilt in a Neo-Romanesque style inspired by Pisa Cathedral, restoring medieval architectural elements. Inside, visitors can admire the 12th-century Ambo of Guglielmo, a pair of pulpits originally from Pisa, a 15th-century Flemish triptych attributed to Rogier van der Weyden, and the mausoleum of Aragonese King Martin I of Sicily. The crypt houses the Sanctuary of the Martyrs with 179 niches containing relics discovered near the Basilica of San Saturnino. The cathedral remains a vital religious center and one of Cagliari's most visited monuments, reflecting centuries of artistic and cultural evolution.
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Astuce: Visit during weekdays in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended for guided tours, especially in peak tourist seasons. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website or contact the cathedral for updated opening hours and special event schedules.
Faits intéressants
- •The Ambo of Guglielmo, a 12th-century pulpit originally sculpted for Pisa Cathedral, was relocated to Cagliari Cathedral in 1312.
- •The cathedral houses a 15th-century Flemish triptych attributed to the renowned painter Rogier van der Weyden.
- •The crypt's Sanctuary of the Martyrs contains 179 niches with relics of local martyrs discovered during 17th-century excavations.
- •The mausoleum of King Martin I of Sicily, who died during the conquest of Sardinia, is located within the cathedral.
- •The current Neo-Romanesque façade was built in the 1930s using local 'pietra forte' limestone and fragments from the original medieval church.
Histoire
The cathedral was constructed by the Pisans in the early 13th century within their stronghold of Castel di Castro and was first mentioned in 1254.
It was elevated to cathedral status in 1258 after the destruction of Santa Igia, the former capital of Sardinia.
The 14th century saw the addition of the transept and side entrances, transforming the building into a Latin cross plan.
The 17th and early 18th centuries brought Baroque renovations, including raising the presbytery to build a sanctuary for martyrs' relics and adding a dome.
The original façade was demolished in the early 20th century and replaced in the 1930s with the current Neo-Romanesque façade, inspired by Pisa Cathedral and designed by Francesco Giarrizzo.
The cathedral underwent restoration of its dome, roof, and bell tower in 1999.
Guide du lieu
Ambo of Guglielmo12th century
A pair of 12th-century marble pulpits originally created by Master Guglielmo for Pisa Cathedral, moved to Cagliari in 1312. The pulpits feature intricate sculptures depicting New Testament scenes and are supported by four marble lions now located at the presbytery balustrade.
Mausoleum of Martin I of Sicily1676–1680
A funerary monument built between 1676 and 1680 dedicated to King Martin I of Sicily, who died during the early 15th-century conquest of Sardinia. It is located in the left transept of the cathedral.
Triptych of Clement VII15th century
A 15th-century Flemish triptych attributed to Rogier van der Weyden, housed within the cathedral. It is a significant example of Northern Renaissance art in Sardinia.
Sanctuary of the Martyrs17th century
Located in the crypt, this sanctuary contains 179 niches with relics of martyrs found during 17th-century excavations near the Basilica of San Saturnino. The sanctuary features three Baroque chapels with ornate decorations.
Contact
Téléphone: 070 663837
