The cathedral is accompanied by the cloister of the former Benedictine monastery, which dates back to the late 12th century and is a magnificent example of Byzantine architecture. It is 47 metres square with a double-arched portico with ogival arches supported by twin columns decorated with alternating arabesque carvings and mosaic motifs. The capitals are decorated with scenes from the Bible. In the south corner is an enclosure bordered by three arches on each side, in which is a fountain whose water flows from a stylised palm-shaped column with standing sculptures, heads and leaves in relief. The jets of water are subtle and come from human and lion mouths. The bases of the cloister columns display a rich variety of motifs, such as stylised leaves, rosettes, lion's paws, heads of beasts, groups of men and animals, frogs and lizards.
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