Olbia - Basilica di San Simplicio

The little hill, on which the Basilica di San Simplicio was erected outside the medieval city walls, has a long history. It is proven that here once was Carthaginian cemetery. When the Romans moved in after the Punic Wars, they had a temple right here, followed by an early "Byzantine" church (~ 600).

The Basilica di San Simplicio was erected late 11th/early 12th century. This was a cathedral upto 1511. San Simplicio a martyr, whose relics are kept under the main altar, was probably the first bishop here within the early 4th century.

Here is the nave and two aisles divided by granite columns and piers. On the left is a granite capitals with the heads of rams.