Basilica Sant'Antonino, Campania Travel Guide

The Basilica di Sant'Antonino, located on Piazza Sant'Antonino, stands as a testament to Sorrento's enduring faith and rich history. Dedicated to Saint Antoninus, the city's patron saint, this basilica is one of the most important religious sites in the region. Originally built in the 11th century on the site of a 9th-century oratory, the basilica has evolved over the centuries, incorporating both Romanesque and Baroque architectural elements.Inside, the basilica features three naves divided by twelve columns crafted from various types of marble, reportedly sourced from ancient Greek-Roman structures in Sorrento. The interior is adorned with paintings, altars, and other artistic treasures, reflecting the basilica's long history and the devotion of the local community. Of particular note are the two reliquaries, dating back to 1608, which contain relics of Saint Baccolo and Saint Placido. The crypt, often called “del Soccorpo”, is a highlight, featuring six canvases by Carlo Amalfi depicting Sorrento's patron saints. The silver statue of Saint Antoninus is paraded through the city's streets during the saint's feast day on February 14th.A unique feature of the basilica is the presence of whale ribs near the entrance, a reminder of a popular legend in which Saint Antoninus saved a child who had been swallowed by a whale. The basilica also houses a collection of silver medallions, many of them votive offerings from shipwrecked sailors expressing their gratitude for the saint's intervention. Today, the Basilica di Sant'Antonino remains an active place of worship and a significant cultural landmark in Sorrento, attracting visitors and pilgrims alike.