The Cathedral, financed by the community, stands on the site of an ancient early Christian structure. Renowned for its striking location, it stands out in the panorama of Romanesque architecture in Apulia. It was built for the canonisation of the young pilgrim Nicholas, who came to Trani from Greece. St Nicholas is considered a “fool for Christ”, a particular figure in the Christian tradition who manifested a devotion to God through unconventional behaviour. Its distinctive charm lies in its unusual structure: on the first level is the vault of St Mary, combined with the crypt housing the relics of St Nicholas, unique in its style. Both serve as foundations for the Upper Basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. One of the highlights is the bell tower, set on a through arch that rises up to 58 metres. In 1960, it was elevated to the rank of minor basilica.