Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of Mary, Reggio di Calabria, Italy

Origins of the Cathedral and Early Development

The origins of the Reggio Calabria Cathedral, also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Maria Santissima Assunta in Cielo, date back to the early centuries of the second millennium. Following the Norman invasion of Southern Italy, the city of Reggio underwent a significant transformation, particularly with the introduction of Latin Christianity, which gradually replaced the local Greek-Byzantine practices. In 1061, Robert Guiscard and the Normans arrived in Reggio, conquering the city and establishing the Duchy of Calabria. They displaced the Byzantine influence and commissioned the construction of a new cathedral that would align with the Roman Catholic Church, to which the Normans were devoted. The original cathedral, referred to as “La Cattolica,” was entrusted to the Greek population of the city, while the Normans set about constructing a new church in the Roman Catholic tradition. Over time, this cathedral grew in prominence and eventually became a focal point for worship in the region.

Gothic-Norman Architecture and Development

By the 12th century, the Reggio Calabria Cathedral had likely adopted a Gothic-Norman style, featuring a significant structure with five naves. Scholars note that the cathedral’s layout and dimensions were strikingly similar to those of the Cathedral of Cefalù in Sicily. This building reflected the architectural influences of the time and showcased the growing importance of the cathedral in the region. Documented records from 1453 and 1477 indicate that during this period, Archbishop Antonio De Ricci added a bell tower to the cathedral. The bell tower was a key addition, as the cathedral had previously lacked such a feature.

Turkish Raids and Restoration Efforts

Throughout the 16th century, the cathedral, like many buildings in Reggio, faced destruction due to Turkish raids. The city was attacked twice by Turkish forces, first in 1574 and again in 1594, both times resulting in fires that caused significant damage. The cathedral was rebuilt following each attack. In 1580, after the first fire, it was reconsecrated by Archbishop Gaspare Ricciullo del Fosso. Further restoration efforts were made after the second fire, including those by Archbishop Annibale D’Afflitto in 1599 and Archbishop Gaspare Creales in 1665. In 1682, Archbishop Ybañez made substantial improvements to the cathedral, restoring it both inside and out. A commemorative plaque, placed within the cathedral, detailed the privileges of the Reggio archbishopric and highlighted the cathedral’s historical significance.

Baroque and Neoclassical Periods

By the early 18th century, the cathedral underwent a major transformation when Monsignor Polou had the structure rebuilt in the late Baroque style. The new design featured a Latin cross layout with three naves. The building was located near the modern-day Via Castello and extended towards Corso Garibaldi. However, the cathedral was severely damaged by the earthquake of 1783, which affected much of the city. After the earthquake, the engineer Giovan Battista Mori led further restoration efforts, with the church reconsecrated by Monsignor Capobianco. Subsequent restorations continued throughout the 19th century, with ongoing embellishments, including by Monsignor Cernicola and Monsignor Converti. The structure’s façade bore an inscription from the Acts of the Apostles that read: “CIRCUMLECENTES DEVENIMUS RHEGIUM,” translating to “Coasting, we reached Reggio” (Acts 28:13), reflecting the historical connection of St. Paul’s visit to the city.

The Earthquake of 1908 and the New Cathedral

The most significant transformation of the cathedral came after the devastating earthquake of 1908, which caused substantial destruction in Reggio Calabria, including the cathedral. In response, the archbishop Rinaldo Rousset decided to rebuild the cathedral entirely. The task was entrusted to Carmelite Father Carmelo Umberto Angiolini, who, in 1917, designed the new cathedral in a neo-Romanesque style. This design combined Romanesque and Gothic elements, reflecting the eclectic trends of the period. The use of modern materials and anti-seismic measures ensured that the new structure would withstand future disasters. The rebuilding was completed by 1928, and the cathedral was consecrated on September 2, 1928, by Archbishop Carmelo Pujia. This marked the beginning of a new era for the cathedral, which stood as a symbol of resilience and faith for the people of Reggio Calabria.

Elevation to Minor Basilica

In recognition of its historical, religious, and architectural significance, the cathedral was elevated to the status of a minor basilica by a papal bull on June 21, 1978. The cathedral’s importance was highlighted in the papal declaration, which emphasized its historical connection to St. Paul the Apostle, who had visited Reggio Calabria, and its prominent role in the religious life of the region. The bull stated, “Among the many titles of honor, religious piety, and faith, for which the Church of Reggio has distinguished itself, one of the most ancient and venerable, in a rightly particular manner, it boasts both for the coming to Reggio of St. Paul the Apostle and for its Cathedral Church. This for its breadth and the splendor of the art, as well as for the memories of the saints kept there, and for the multitudes of faithful who gather there, stands out in fact and truly as the first among all the churches of Calabria.” Today, the Reggio Calabria Cathedral stands as a vital cultural, religious, and historical monument for the city and the region, representing the resilience and continuity of faith across the centuries.