Basilica of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Galatina, Italy Verified listing

Basilica of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Galatina, Italy

The Basilica of Saint Catherine of Alexandria stands in the historic center of Galatina, in Italy’s southern region of Apulia.
It represents one of the finest examples of Apulian Romanesque and Gothic art, admired for its beauty and sacred importance.
In 1992, Pope John Paul II granted it the title of Minor Pontifical Basilica, increasing its prestige and spiritual recognition.

Raimondello Orsini del Balzo began construction of the basilica in 1369 after returning from one of his many crusading journeys.
While in the Holy Land, he visited Mount Sinai to pay homage to Saint Catherine of Alexandria, whose relics rested there.
According to legend, during his farewell, he kissed the saint’s hand and bit off one of her fingers.
He brought the relic home and placed it in a silver reliquary, which remains in the church’s treasury to this day.

After Raimondello died in 1405, his wife, Princess Maria d’Enghien, took over the responsibility of continuing the work.
Later, their son Giovanni Antonio Orsini Del Balzo completed the basilica, preserving both the family’s legacy and spiritual devotion.
The combined efforts of mother and son ensured the basilica’s completion and lasting influence in the region.

The builders constructed the basilica on top of an earlier Byzantine church from the 9th or 10th century.
Rather than destroy the older structure, they chose to incorporate key elements into the new design.
The apse from the original church still stands along the outer wall of the right nave, visible to all who visit.

Today, the basilica continues to inspire pilgrims and travelers through its blend of faith, legend, history, and architectural grandeur.
It remains a remarkable monument of devotion, artistry, and cultural continuity in the heart of Galatina.

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