Things to do in Canosa di Puglia Italy – what to see attractions and activities

The Roman Amphitheater dates back to the first century AD. Based on evidence found, it is assumed that in the past it was a majestic structure of over 10,000 square meters, with a regular plan. Unfortunately, today only a few ruins remain of the original plant.

The Bohemondo Mausoleum D'Altavilla was built in the twelfth century and was dedicated to the famous hero, Marco Boemondo d'Altavilla. The structure was incorporated into the walls of the Cathedral in the area, and looks like a temple. The plant is complex, and has well-kept architectural elements: the small dome, the arches, the tombstone attributed to Boemondo, and many other decorative details typical of the time.

In this area there are two high quality cultural quarries, which in the past have been used as cisterns to preserve rainwater. In these caves it is now possible to visit a museum of rural culture or have meetings.

The hypogeum of the Hoplite was built during the 4th century BC, and was excavated in a tuff bench, closed outside by two limestone slabs. The name of the archaeological site derives from the bas-relief that is located at the inside: a hoplite soldier, a warrior from ancient Greece on horseback who had the task of preceding the knight into battle. The square structure has a large dromos, and typical funeral elements. The current state of conservation is quite good, and it is open to the public.

The Temple dates back to the Roman period and was built at the behest of Herod Atticus. It was a majestic and well-maintained structure, but today only the remains of it are visible. In the neighboring area, a sculpture dedicated to Jupiter was discovered, from which the name of the Temple derives, while the name 'Taurus' means 'elevated area'.

The Lapidary dates back to the first century AD, and is part of the Villa Comunale, a construction of the '800. It is a white marble structure, built to decorate Viale Verdeggiante. On the lapidary there are inscriptions, and other archaeological elements of great historical importance such as columns, capitals and funeral reliefs.

The Basilica dates back to the Roman period (2nd century AD), and its remains were discovered in 1925. The original nucleus of the structure was a Hellenistic temple, then transformed into a Christian basilica in the 5th century. It is assumed that the structure has been restored several times over the years, as it has more recent architectural elements than the date of construction. Today, only capitals, columns and mosaics characteristic of the time are visible.

The ancient Baptistery dates back to the early Christian period, and was built around the 7th century. It is one of the oldest Apulian structures of a religious nature. Although over the years it was restored several times, it is currently not in an excellent state of preservation. Since 2000, the site became the subject of study and research at the University of Foggia.

The Trajan Arch was built in the second century, during the Trajan period, from which in fact it took its name. It is a brick structure, decorated with marble elements. The construction was restored several times, and with the restoration of 1911, the arch took on its present appearance.

Torre Casieri is a mausoleum dating back to the first century. The structure, better to say, what is left of it, has a square plan built in opus testaceum. The plant consists of three distinguishable levels, and inside is the tomb chamber. Over the years, the structure has undergone several changes.

The Mausoleum Bagnoli dates back to the 2nd century, and is located on an ancient necropolis. It is a Roman cemetery plant, consisting of two different floors, connected together with a square of bricks. Noble characters of the time are buried under the mausoleum.

The Bridge dates back to the Roman period, and served as a link between Daunia and Canosa. It rises above the great Ofanto River, and has a solid structure formed by five round arches. Over the years, the structure has undergone several restorations and today it is preserved in excellent condition.