Duomo di Sant'Andrea (Amalfi Cathedral), Amalfi (must see)

Amalfi Cathedral, also known as Saint Andrea Cathedral, is a remarkable medieval Roman Catholic cathedral. The cathedral is dedicated to the Apostle Saint Andrew, whose relics are preserved within its walls.

The construction of Amalfi Cathedral began in the 9th and 10th centuries, and over the years, it has undergone numerous additions, renovations, and stylistic transformations. The architectural elements of the cathedral display a captivating blend of Arab-Norman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, culminating in the creation of a new Norman-Arab-Byzantine facade in the 19th century.

Adjacent to the cathedral is the 9th-century Basilica of the Crucifix, and below it lies the Crypt of Staint Andrew, where the relics of the saint can be found. The original church, which now serves as the Diocesan Museum of Amalfi, was erected in the 9th century on the remains of an earlier temple. A second church was built to the south in the 10th century, eventually becoming the current cathedral.

The remains of Saint Andrew were said to have been brought to Amalfi from Constantinople in 1206 during the Fourth Crusade by Cardinal Peter of Capua. According to legend, manna, a sweet sap-like substance, miraculously emanated from the saint's bones.

The bell tower of Amalfi Cathedral was built between the 12th and 13th centuries in front of the original church. It features an elaborate crown adorned with marble and majolica, showcasing a distinctive Arab-Norman style Inside the cathedral, visitors can explore various chapels representing both Gothic and Renaissance influences, while the nave boasts Baroque decorations from the 18th century.

In 1861, a section of the cathedral's facade collapsed, causing damage to the atrium. Consequently, the entire front of the church was reconstructed according to a design by architect Errico Alvino. The new facade embraced a richly adorned style, drawing inspiration from Italian Gothic and Arab-Norman aesthetics.

Within the central nave, the high altar is crafted from the sarcophagus of Peter of Capua, who passed away in 1214. Above the altar hangs a painting by Andrea dell'Asta depicting "The Martyrdom of St. Andrew." The boxed ceiling, dating back to 1702, showcases artwork depicting the Flagellation, the Crucifixion of the Apostle, and the "Miracle of the Manna" by Dell'Asta from 1710. The triumphal arch is supported by two Egyptian granite columns.