//
The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Justin of Chieti (died 540). Bishop Atto I consecrated it in 1069, but it stands on the ruins of a precedent church. In 1335 Bartolomeo di Giacomo built the first three floors of the tower, which was completed with the bell cell by Antonio da Lodi in 1498. During the end of 16th century and early 17th century, archbishop Matteo Saminiato restored the church and commissioned the porphyry baptismal font. In 1703 an earthquake demolished tower's spir, and between 1764 and 1770 archbishop Francesco Brancia completely transformed the church. In the middle of 19th century local artist Del Zoppo decorated the vault. In 20th century architect Guido Cirilli consolidated the bell tower, rebuilt the spir, and included the exteriors of the church in a sort of new wall covering. Between 1970 and 1976 the Baroque decorations of the crypt were destroyed in order to bring to light the underlying Early Medieval structure. The cathedral hosts important artworks, such as the wooden choir made in 1769 and the 18th-century paintings by Saverio Persico (in the presbytery and secretariat). The crypt with irregular layout, which is articulated in six small naves, offers to the visitor frescoes dating back to 14th-15th century, and a marble arch, in which are hosted the relics of Saint Justin. Adjacent to the crypt, Mount of the Dead Brotherhood's Chapel, decorated with Baroque gilded stuccoes, hosts a precious altarpiece by Paolo de Matteis.