Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian in Alberobello

The Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian in Alberobello was built in 1885. It contains the relics of Saints Cosmas and Damian, patrons of Alberobello. They are very revered by the Catholic Church, so the Church in Alberobello was given the title of Minor Basilica.

The twins Cosmas and Damian were born in the Arabian Peninsula in the 3rd century AD, and lived in Asia Minor (the territory of Turkey). They were called saints without money, because they treated all people, poor and rich, and never took money for it. The brothers preached the Christian faith and were executed during the persecution under the Emperor Diocletian. Saints Cosmas and Damian are venerated by both Catholics and Orthodox.

The Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian is built in the neoclassical style of Catholic churches. A large staircase leads to the entrance to the temple. The facade is decorated with Corinthian columns. Two towers rise above it. Above the altar, where the relics are stored, there are wooden figures of Saints.

The inhabitants of Alberobello hold a solemn procession every year on September 27 in honor of Saints Cosmas and Damian. Their veneration began in the 18th century. These days thousands of believers come to Alberobello from all over the country.