Canosa di Puglia
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Latest page update: 2 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The historic town of Canosa di Puglia is situated within the Barletta Andria Trani province and has a population of around 30,000 residents.
It stands at an elevation of 105 metres above sea level while nearby places of interest include Cerignola, Andria, Castel del Monte, Barletta and Trani. |
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Canosa di Puglia • Historic Town • Southern Italy
Canosa di Puglia is a historic town located in the northern part of the Puglia region, within the Province of Barletta-Andria-Trani. Situated inland, it lies on the banks of the Ofanto River, surrounded by agricultural land and rolling hills. Known for its rich ancient history, Canosa was once an important city in the Roman and pre-Roman eras, and remnants of its past can still be found throughout the town. The town’s archaeological sites, including ancient tombs, ruins, and mosaics, make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
Visitors to Canosa di Puglia can explore its many historical and cultural attractions. The Cathedral of San Sabino, with its beautiful Romanesque architecture, stands as a testament to the town’s medieval heritage. The local museum houses a variety of artefacts, some of which date back to the town's ancient Roman and Greek periods. The town’s archaeological park allows visitors to walk through ancient ruins and discover the town's past, while the surrounding countryside offers peaceful walks and views of the rural landscape. Canosa di Puglia is also known for its excellent wines and olive oil, with local producers offering tastings and tours.
Canosa di Puglia is well-positioned for those looking to explore other towns and attractions in the region. To the south, the town of Barletta offers a lively seafront and impressive historical landmarks, including its medieval castle and cathedral. To the east, the coastal town of Molfetta is known for its bustling harbour and historical sites. Further inland, the town of Andria, home to the unique Castel del Monte, is a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, the city of Bari, with its rich cultural and maritime heritage, is easily accessible for those wanting to explore the wider region of Puglia.
Visitors to Canosa di Puglia can explore its many historical and cultural attractions. The Cathedral of San Sabino, with its beautiful Romanesque architecture, stands as a testament to the town’s medieval heritage. The local museum houses a variety of artefacts, some of which date back to the town's ancient Roman and Greek periods. The town’s archaeological park allows visitors to walk through ancient ruins and discover the town's past, while the surrounding countryside offers peaceful walks and views of the rural landscape. Canosa di Puglia is also known for its excellent wines and olive oil, with local producers offering tastings and tours.
Canosa di Puglia is well-positioned for those looking to explore other towns and attractions in the region. To the south, the town of Barletta offers a lively seafront and impressive historical landmarks, including its medieval castle and cathedral. To the east, the coastal town of Molfetta is known for its bustling harbour and historical sites. Further inland, the town of Andria, home to the unique Castel del Monte, is a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, the city of Bari, with its rich cultural and maritime heritage, is easily accessible for those wanting to explore the wider region of Puglia.
History
Canosa di Puglia has a long and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. It was originally an important center of the ancient Daunian civilization, and later, during the Roman era, it became a flourishing municipium known as Canusium.
The town played a crucial role during the wars between Rome and Carthage, and it is said that the famous Roman orator and statesman Cicero once taught in Canosa.
During the early Christian period, Canosa di Puglia became an Episcopal see and was home to several early Christian basilicas and catacombs. The town's strategic location and historical importance led to numerous invasions and conquests over the centuries by various civilizations, including the Goths, Lombards, and Byzantines.
The town played a crucial role during the wars between Rome and Carthage, and it is said that the famous Roman orator and statesman Cicero once taught in Canosa.
During the early Christian period, Canosa di Puglia became an Episcopal see and was home to several early Christian basilicas and catacombs. The town's strategic location and historical importance led to numerous invasions and conquests over the centuries by various civilizations, including the Goths, Lombards, and Byzantines.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Archeological Park: The Archaeological Park of Canosa di Puglia is a vast area that houses the ruins of ancient Daunian and Roman settlements. Visitors can explore ancient city walls, theaters, and tombs dating back thousands of years.
- Basilica di San Sabino: This ancient church, built in the 6th century, is one of the most important religious sites in Canosa. It features beautiful Byzantine-style mosaics and is said to house the relics of Saint Sabino.
- Hypogeum of Torre di Satriano: This fascinating underground burial complex, dating back to the 4th century BC, is a network of rock-cut tombs and chambers.
- Museo Nazionale Archeologico: The National Archaeological Museum of Canosa di Puglia displays a remarkable collection of artifacts and historical objects excavated from the region.
- Palazzo di Vescovado: A historic building that once served as the Bishop's Palace and now houses the Town Hall.
Comune di Canosa di Puglia
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Province: Barletta Andria Trani
Region: Puglia Population: 27,680 (in 2024 - source) Size: 151 km² Elevation: 105 metres Close by: Cerignola, Andria, Castel del Monte, Barletta, Trani Recommended accommodation: Hotel d'Altavilla |
