Dolianova - Cattedrale di San Pantaleo

A diocese of Dolia (the ancient name of Dolianova) existed from 1089 until 1503, when it was merged into the archdiocese of Cagliari. The "Cattedrale di San Pantaleo", the bishop's seat of the former diocese, was erected within the 12th and the 13th century. It got consecrated in 1289.

The church was built in Pisan-Romanesque style. The apse, as well as the sides, the bell tower and the façade are decorated with pilasters and Lombard bands featuring numerous different sculptured motifs.

As soft, local sandstones were used, most carvings are very weathered. The artists did not create very elaborate carvings, but they were very imaginative. For a while I saw a "Luxuria" here, but the lady (?) seems to dance with the snakes.