Andria Cathedral
A magnificent cathedral showcasing Romanic, Gothic, and Baroque styles, housing the revered 'Sacred Thorn' and an imperial crypt.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Andria Cathedral
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent cathedral showcasing Romanic, Gothic, and Baroque styles, housing the revered 'Sacred Thorn' and an imperial crypt.
"A beautiful church with amazing crypt and a rich history."
🏛️ Admire the Mix of Styles
Appreciate the unique blend of Romanic, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, a testament to its long history.
✨ Seek Out the Sacred Thorn
Look for the 'Sacred Thorn' relic, a significant artifact with a history of reported miracles.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sacred Thorn
A revered relic believed to be from Jesus's crown of thorns, with a history of reported miracles.
Imperial Crypt
Discover the tombs of Emperor Frederick II's wives, Isabella II of Jerusalem and Isabella of England.
Architectural Fusion
Marvel at the cathedral's stunning blend of Romanic, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
What to See Inside
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏛️ Admire the Mix of Styles
Appreciate the unique blend of Romanic, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, a testament to its long history.
✨ Seek Out the Sacred Thorn
Look for the 'Sacred Thorn' relic, a significant artifact with a history of reported miracles.
👑 Explore the Imperial Crypt
Descend into the crypt to see the tombs of Emperor Frederick II's wives, a fascinating historical site.
📸 Drone Views Available
See the cathedral from above with stunning drone footage capturing its grandeur.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏛️ Admire the Mix of Styles
Appreciate the unique blend of Romanic, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, a testament to its long history.
✨ Seek Out the Sacred Thorn
Look for the 'Sacred Thorn' relic, a significant artifact with a history of reported miracles.
👑 Explore the Imperial Crypt
Descend into the crypt to see the tombs of Emperor Frederick II's wives, a fascinating historical site.
📸 Drone Views Available
See the cathedral from above with stunning drone footage capturing its grandeur.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Andria Cathedral for its rich history, unique architectural blend of Romanic, Gothic, and Baroque styles, and significant relics like the 'Sacred Thorn.' The crypt, housing the tombs of Emperor Frederick II's wives, is also a highlight. Some note that while the main cathedral is free, access to certain areas may incur a fee.
"I love to spend time exploring the old churches in Italy. Some of them are really interesting, like this one. The cathedral is very ancient and it’s a mix of Romanic, Gothic and Barocco, and it was recently renovated.
One interesting thing to mention is the presence of the “Sacred Thorn” from the crown that was placed on the head of Jesus before being crucified. There are many around Europe, but this one witnessed some miracles.
The crypt, dedicated to the Holy Saviour contains the tombs of two of the wives of Emperor Frederick II, Queen Isabella II of Jerusalem (Yolande) and Isabella of England."
Pier Around The World
"Beautiful church, well worth a visit while in Andria."
Michael Stemmeler
"Wow! 😍😍😍"
Katia Recchia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Andria Cathedral is located in the historic center of Andria, Italy. If arriving by car, look for parking in the surrounding streets or designated lots. Public transport options might include local buses that stop near the city center.
While the cathedral is centrally located, public transport within Andria itself might be limited. It's best to check local bus schedules or consider walking from nearby drop-off points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main part of the cathedral is often free, but there might be a fee for specific areas like the crypt or special exhibitions. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire on-site for the most current information.
Opening hours can vary, especially on religious holidays. Generally, it's open during daylight hours, but it's recommended to verify the schedule before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Access to the crypt, which houses historical tombs, may require a separate ticket or be included in a guided tour. Confirm pricing and availability upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors should prioritize seeing the 'Sacred Thorn' relic and exploring the crypt with the tombs of Emperor Frederick II's wives. The cathedral's diverse architectural styles are also a major draw.
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted, especially near relics or in darker areas. Always be respectful of ongoing services or other visitors.
As a place of worship, it's respectful to dress modestly. Avoid revealing clothing. Shoulders and knees should generally be covered.
Guided tours can offer deeper insights into the cathedral's history and art. Inquire at the information desk or check for pre-booked tour options.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, especially the facade and bell tower, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, focus on the architectural details, stained glass, and the unique relics. Drone footage can capture the scale of the building.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and may require permits. While some impressive drone footage exists, ensure you comply with all rules before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the crypt can be like a mini-adventure, imagining the lives of queens and emperors. Keep the visit relatively short to maintain children's attention spans, and consider bringing a small notebook for them to sketch interesting features they see. Ensure everyone is dressed respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
The presence of the 'Sacred Thorn' adds a layer of religious history and folklore, while the Imperial Crypt provides a direct connection to the powerful Hohenstaufen dynasty. Researching Emperor Frederick II and his wives before your visit can greatly enhance the experience, allowing you to contextualize the tombs within their historical narrative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tapestry of Styles: Architectural Evolution
This continuous adaptation reflects the changing artistic tastes and structural innovations over time. The recent renovation has not only preserved these historical layers but also enhanced their visibility, allowing visitors to trace the cathedral's development. The interplay between these distinct architectural languages makes exploring the Andria Cathedral a journey through different periods of Italian art and history.
For photographers and architecture enthusiasts, the cathedral offers a unique challenge and reward. Capturing the essence of each style while appreciating their harmonious coexistence is key. Drone footage can provide a breathtaking overview of the entire structure, showcasing how the different elements come together from a bird's-eye view.
Sacred Relics and Imperial Legacies
Beneath the sacred space lies the crypt, a place of historical significance that holds the tombs of two prominent figures: Queen Isabella II of Jerusalem (Yolande) and Isabella of England. These women were wives of the formidable Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. Their final resting place within the cathedral underscores the historical importance of Andria and its connection to imperial power during the medieval period. Exploring the crypt offers a tangible link to Italy's rich royal and imperial past.
Visitors often express awe at the juxtaposition of these sacred and historical elements. The 'Sacred Thorn' speaks to faith and divine intervention, while the imperial crypt whispers tales of power, lineage, and medieval politics. Together, they form a unique narrative that distinguishes the Andria Cathedral from many other religious sites.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit