Bells of Altamura Cathedral (BA) - Italy

Altamura Cathedral, officially dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, erected between 1232 and 1250. Located in the heart of the historic center, its limestone facade is distinguished by its elegant main portal, surmounted by a round arch and decorated with intricate carvings depicting biblical figures and floral motifs. The central rose window, with its deep carving, captures the sunlight, creating a play of shadows and reflections inside. The interior of the cathedral is glorious, with a Latin-cross plan spanning three naves. Elegantly ornamented marble columns support round arches, while finely carved capitals tell stories of saints and religious symbols. The frescoes adorning the walls, dating from different eras, offer a journey through the history of the Altamuran faith. Among the most famous works is the Last Supper, located in the apse, an evocative representation of Christian tradition.
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Complex of five bells divided into two towers:
North Tower:
1. A1 - Nicola, Antonio and Giuseppe Ripandelli (Sant'Angelo dei Lombardi, AV), 1843
South tower:
2. E2 - Ecat foundries (Mondovì, CN), 2006*;
3. B2 - Matheus Barbato (Altamura, BA), 1679;
4. G3 flat - Girolamo Olita (Acerenza, PZ), 1853;
5. E4 flat - unknown, 1780.
*: recast of a previously damaged bell (F3 sharp Matheus Barbato 1679) preserved within the cathedral complex
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Presentation of individual bells, prefestive ringing and plenum (6 p.m.). The major bell, known as “u' sulenn,” was rung manually due to a temporary malfunction of the movement system. This was followed by a coda with the peal and angelus played on the clapper bell. Thanks are due to colleagues Umberto and Paul for cooperating in the collection of bell data and to parish priest D. A. Cianciotta for authorizing the extraordinary ringing of the bells.
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Italian Association of Bell Ringing website: www.campanolog...
©Ermenegildo Guerra, 9/14/24
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