The Basilica of Sant’Antioco di Bisarcio stands on a hill a few kilometers from Ozieri and dominates the surrounding landscape with its imposing structure. It is one of the most important and evocative Romanesque churches in Sardinia.

For several centuries, it served as the cathedral of the Diocese of Bisarcio, as documented from 1065 to 1503. The diocese was later abolished and merged with that of Alghero, and in 1803 it was reestablished with its seat in the city of Ozieri.

The current basilica is the result of several phases of construction. An earlier church already existed in the 11th century, but it was destroyed by fire. In the 12th century, it was rebuilt on a larger scale, with three naves, by craftsmen trained in the Pisan architectural tradition.

In the 13th century, the large two-story portico in front of the facade was added. The collapse of part of the upper story, which occurred in subsequent centuries, gave the facade its characteristic asymmetrical appearance.

Inside, the church is divided into three naves separated by columns with decorated capitals. The central nave is covered by a wooden structure, while the side naves have stone vaults.

In the Middle Ages, the basilica was part of a vast religious complex that also included the bishop’s palace and the rectory, located near the ancient village of Guisarchum, which no longer exists.

The church is dedicated to Saint Antioco, a martyr and the patron saint of the city of Ozieri.