Brindisi
Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista
| The Cathedral of Brindisi was constructed in the 11th century and completed around 1143. It served as a key religious and cultural site during the Crusades. The structure underwent various reconstructions, particularly after an earthquake in 1743, which significantly altered its original Romanesque design. Despite these changes, the cathedral remains a symbol of Brindisi’s historical and architectural heritage, housing important relics and artistic works |
Chiesa di San Giovanni Al Sepolcro
| The Chiesa di San Giovanni al Sepolcro, built in the 11th century, is a Romanesque-style church inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. The circular structure, originally associated with the Knights Templar, was a significant site for pilgrims during the Crusades. The church contains notable frescoes and intricately carved capitals. Its architectural design and historical context make it a vital link to the medieval period and Brindisi's religious heritage. |
Chiesa di San Giovanni Al Sepolcro, Interior
| The Castello Svevo (Swabian Castle) in Brindisi was built in 1227 by Emperor Frederick II. Originally a defensive fortress, it played key roles in various military events throughout history, including during the Angevin and Aragonese periods. The castle was expanded in the 15th century and later served as a naval base during World War II. It remains an important symbol of Brindisi's strategic significance and medieval heritage. The castle was also the locatoin where Italian President Sergio Mattarella hosted a gala dinner for the Group of Seven leaders at the June, 2024 Summit in Italy. |
| It is believed that a fountain existed on this site already in Roman times. The current one was built in 1192 by order of the Norman king Tancredi of Sicily - thus the name "Fontana Tancredi" - on the occasion of the marriage between his son, Roger, and Princess Irene Angelo, daughter of the Byzantine emperor Isaac II, which took place in the Brindisi cathedral (see above). Part of the inscription at the center of this image reads: APPIA APPIO FONS TANCREDO REGE AEDITA // AMBO FERDINANDO LOFFREDO HEROE INSTAVRATA // QUARE STA BIBE ET PROPERA ET TRIA HAEC COMMODA // HIS TRIBVS PROCERIBVS ACCEPTA REFERTO, which translates loosely into "The fountain was built by King Tancred on the Appian Way. It was restored by the hero Ferrante Loffredo. Therefore, stay, drink, and hurry, and report these three benefits to these three illustrious men." |
Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Paolo Eremita
| The Chiesa di San Paolo Eremita in Brindisi dates back to the 14th century and was originally part of a Franciscan convent. Its Gothic-style architecture features a single nave and a vaulted ceiling. Despite damages over the centuries, including during World War II, it retains valuable frescoes and religious art (see below). The church holds historical importance, reflecting the religious and cultural life of Brindisi throughout the medieval period and beyond. |
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