The Basilica of Santa Trofimena has a rich and eventful history.
Its story begins in the 7th and 8th centuries AD when the relics of Saint Trofimena were discovered not far from the beach, enclosed in a marble urn. Subsequently, when Minori was designated as an episcopal see around the year 1000, the relics were solemnly transferred to the new cathedral built in the center of the town.
However, in the 17th century, due to the deteriorating conditions of the original cathedral, the people of Minori made the decision to demolish and rebuild it. This reconstruction gave rise to the current basilica in a Latin cross plan, which has stood majestically in the heart of the city for over two centuries, welcoming the faithful with its grandeur. The main facade of the basilica, adorned with niches and statues, faces the sea, the very means through which the remains of the saint arrived on the Amalfi Coast.
Its neoclassical style is also reflected in the majestic square-plan bell tower that accompanies it. Inside the basilica, one can admire a sumptuous interplay of light, decorative stuccos, and marbles, imparting a touch of discreet elegance to the entire environment. Paintings depicting episodes from the life of the saint, attributed to the master Carotenuto, further enrich the artistic heritage of the place.
A particularly noteworthy feature is the crypt dedicated to Saint Trofimena, accessible from the presbytery via two flights of stairs. This crypt houses the marble statue of the saint and her relics, which are kept in a marble urn. Inside the crypt, a bas-relief depicts the saint in eternal repose.
The Basilica of Santa Trofimena thus represents a place of considerable historical and religious importance, where devotion and art come together to provide a lasting testament to the faith and culture of the region.