The Church of San Pietro in Otranto is one of the most representative medieval buildings of the Byzantine architectural tradition in southern Italy and stands as one of the most important examples of Byzantine art in Apulia. It was probably the city’s first basilica, which in 968 was elevated to the status of a metropolitan see directly under the Patriarchate of Constantinople. Its construction is generally dated to between the 9th and 10th centuries.

The building has a square plan with an inscribed Greek cross, typical of Byzantine religious architecture. Inside, there are three small naves surmounted by a central dome, supported by four columns that define the interior space in a harmonious and balanced manner.

The three apses at the rear house an extraordinary cycle of Byzantine-style frescoes, dating from between the 10th and 11th centuries. Among the oldest paintings, the Washing of the Feet stands out, depicting Christ with a halo in the act of lifting St Peter’s leg, and the scene of the Last Supper. Other depictions belong to later periods: the Nativity of Jesus, Pentecost and the Resurrection are attributed to the 14th century, whilst the Presentation in the Temple and other figures of saints date from the late 16th century, bearing witness to the long artistic and religious continuity of the site.