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.

Granite columns and piers flank the nave. Seen here is a granite capital.