St. Nicholas Basilica |
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The Basilica is the masterpiece of the Apulian Romanesque architecture, displaying Norman and Moorish influence. The front is flanked by two massive small bell towers reminiscent of military architecture, because the church embodies the pre existent Byzantine castle. The facade uses a motif of superimposed blind round arches and round-headed clerestory lights and shows an impressive rose window. The interiors lodges St. Nicholas' mortal remains, worshipped in town, and the Seat of the Venerable Elia.
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Norman castle |
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The Norman castle was rebuilt in the 13th century by Frederick II. Isabel of Aragona and Bona Sforza later added the enceinte walls. It has served as a prison and today hosts the councillorship of Cultural Heritage. Here St. Francis and the Holy Roman Emperor are alleged to have met, with reference to a popular legend. The Emperor tempted the saint by the beauty of a virgin who tried to seduce him.
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Piccinini Theater |
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The civic theater is dedicated to the memory of the great composer Piccinini; it was built by Piccolini and first opened to the public in 1854. The theater is neoclassical and is characterized by a massive 4 columns portico supporting a tympanum.
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