Santa Margherita

Santa Margherita, known locally as Chiesa di Santa Margherita, is a captivating Romanesque church located in the charming town of Bisceglie in southern Italy. This quaint yet historically rich site, constructed in the 12th century, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and spiritual devotion of its time. A visit to Santa Margherita offers a delightful journey back in time, providing an immersive experience into the medieval ecclesiastical architecture of the Apulia region.

The History of Santa Margherita

The origins of Santa Margherita date back to the year 1197, as evidenced by an ancient document. The church was founded by Falco, a judge of the Imperial Court, as an attestato di gratitudine (token of gratitude) dedicated to Saint Margaret of Antioch. Falco's prestigious role in the Imperial Court, a position later held by notable figures such as Pier della Vigna and Taddeo di Sessa, underscores the significance of this humble yet profound structure.

Remarkably preserved through the centuries, Santa Margherita has retained its original charm and structure, unlike many other historical sites that have succumbed to the ravages of time. The church once stood on a larger, enclosed plot of land, but today it occupies a more modest space. The most recent restoration efforts were completed in 2002, ensuring that the church remains a pristine example of Romanesque architecture.

Architectural Highlights

Santa Margherita is a refined model of Puglian Romanesque architecture, characterized by its use of finely cut stone laid in uneven courses. The simple yet elegant façade features a gabled roof with a smooth surface, a lunette portal with a double arch, and an oculus, originally perforated, that adds a touch of delicate intricacy to the design. The façade is crowned by a series of ramping arches, framing a sculpted rose with the initials of Saint Margaret, the church's namesake.

The church's layout follows a contracted Greek cross plan, with a central nave intersected by transepts and capped by a dome on pendentives at the crossing. The eastern end of the nave concludes in a semicircular apse, housing a baldachin supported by two columns resting on Romanesque lions. The roof, covered in chiancarelle (small slabs of local limestone), conceals the dome's extrados, adding to the structure's understated elegance.

Ornamental Features

The decorative elements of Santa Margherita are distributed with a discerning eye, enhancing the church's aesthetic without overwhelming its simplicity. The northern façade is particularly noteworthy, adorned with an Agnus Dei and several corbels supporting the architrave that completes the gable. This façade also features three tombs, crafted by some of the most renowned Puglian masters of the 13th century: Facitolo da Bari and Anseramo da Trani.

The first tomb, though incomplete, depicts a recumbent warrior and is dedicated to Basilio and Mauro Falconi. The second tomb, created by Facitolo da Bari in 1220, is dedicated to Riccardo Falconi and features a richly decorated and perforated baldachin. The third tomb, intended for the children of the Falconi family, was crafted by Anseramo da Trani in 1246 and boasts a trilobed arch baldachin supported by two columns.

Interior Splendor

Inside Santa Margherita, visitors are greeted by a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The interior is divided into three naves with a double portico, supported by columns that bear semi-circular arches. The central nave is covered with a trussed roof, while the side naves are topped with groin vaults, creating a harmonious blend of open and enclosed spaces.

The church is adorned with several inscribed plaques, commemorating the individuals buried within its walls, including Riccardo, Mauro, and Basilio Falconi, as well as Abbot Giacomo. One particularly notable inscription dates back to 1136 and originates from the now-lost Church of San Fortunato.

In the 13th century, a panel depicting the heroic deeds and virtues of Saint Margaret was added to the church's decor. This panel, which portrays the saint with her hands raised in prayer, is now housed in the Pinacoteca Metropolitana di Bari. The church was also adorned with two additional panels, one depicting Saint Nicholas of Bari and the other a Madonna and Child.

A Hidden Gem in Bisceglie

Santa Margherita is more than just a church; it is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the rich history and architectural heritage of Bisceglie. Its well-preserved structure and exquisite details make it a must-visit for anyone interested in medieval architecture and history. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to Santa Margherita promises to be a rewarding and enriching experience.