TrAIVel brings you today to discover the Church of San Corrado, the symbol of Molfetta.
Located at the edge of the old town, facing the port, the Church of San Corrado was the city's cathedral until 1785.
History and Architecture
Built between 1150 and the late 13th century, it was originally dedicated to Saint Mary of the Assumption and served as Molfetta’s only parish until 1671. In 1785, the episcopal seat was moved to the Jesuit College Church, and the building was renamed after San Corrado, the patron saint of Molfetta.
This church is a rare example of Apulian Romanesque architecture, featuring a central nave covered by three aligned domes, set on hexagonal drums.
Facade and Exterior
The church has an asymmetrical basilica layout with three naves. The two lateral naves have sloping roofs with tiles similar to those of the trulli in the Itria Valley.
The main facade is simple, while the lateral one features three Renaissance windows, ecclesiastical emblems, and statues of San Corrado and San Nicola. Originally, the church stood directly over the sea, as evidenced by old photographs taken before the port was built.
The Bell Towers
Two twin towers, 39 meters high, dominate the structure. One houses the bell tower, while the other, closer to the sea, served as a watchtower for spotting Saracen raids.
Interior and Artwork
The interior is minimal but preserves valuable elements:
🔹 Baptismal font (1518)
🔹 14th-century relief altar frontal
🔹 12th-century stone pluteus, depicting a pontifical ceremony
🔹 13th-century Redeemer statue
🔹 12th-century holy water font, featuring a man holding a basin with a fish, a Christian symbol
The Baroque high altar, placed in the semicircular apse, enhances the church’s grandeur.
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