The Chiesa di San Domenico in Caltagirone, also known as the Church of Maria Santissima del Rosario, is a splendid architectural jewel nestled in the heart of Sicily. This magnificent structure, with its rich history and stunning baroque design, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the cultural and spiritual heritage of the region.
The origins of the Chiesa di San Domenico date back to the Spanish era, when the first Dominican convent was established under the title of Santa Rosalia. Initially built near the church of Sant'Antonio Abate, the convent served as a hospice in 1507 but was eventually abandoned in 1558. The Dominican presence was revived in 1643, only to be suppressed again in 1652 by a decree from Pope Innocent X. The original structure was tragically destroyed in the devastating earthquake of 1693 that reshaped much of the Val di Noto.
The present-day church was reconstructed between 1801 and 1808, thanks to the efforts of Carlo Maria Longobardi Savalza, the Marquis of Schifaldi. The local community and the faithful contributed to the rebuilding, ensuring that the church would once again stand as a beacon of faith and resilience in Caltagirone. Over the years, the church has undergone various changes, including a period of closure due to safety concerns. In 1982, it was repurposed as an auditorium by the Association of Friends of Music, breathing new life into its historic walls.
The exterior of the Chiesa di San Domenico is a testament to the grandeur of baroque architecture. Its concave façade, crafted from intricately carved stone, is adorned with an artistic portal crowned by a tympanum. Two twin bell towers, each housing four bells, frame the façade, creating a striking silhouette against the Sicilian sky.
The façade is composed of two superimposed orders with a gently concave perspective. The elevated pavement is accessible via two isosceles ramps, protected by wrought iron railings. The first order, featuring the main portal topped by a triangular tympanum, is flanked by Ionic columns crowned with Corinthian capitals. Niches and mistilinear panels adorned with phytomorphic festoons add to the decorative charm of the façade. The upper architectural order is linked by a grand entablature, continuing the festoon motif in white stone, and is accented by small volutes. At the center, a large window-loggia with a balustrade invites light into the church's interior.
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Inside, the Chiesa di San Domenico boasts a single nave design, with a ceiling frescoed in 1800 by local artist Isidoro Boscari. The fresco depicts Saint Dominic in the presence of the Holy Trinity and the Virgin Mary, a visual feast for visitors who gaze upwards. The marble flooring, added in 1963, complements the church's aesthetic, while the side chapels feature altars of polychrome marble.
The church's interior is further enhanced by a stunning 18th-century majolica floor. As you wander through the nave, the artistic and spiritual journey continues with various chapels and artworks, each telling a story of devotion and artistic achievement.
The presbytery, although lacking an altar, is decorated with oil paintings depicting Saint Dominic and Saint Rosalia. These artworks, created by unknown artists of the time, capture the essence of the church's spiritual significance. Among the notable pieces is the 1858 painting Miracle of Saint Hyacinth by the Vaccaro brothers, Francesco and Giuseppe. A wooden crucifix and an oil painting of Saint Dominic with Saint Catherine of Siena add to the collection of sacred art.
One of the church's most treasured artifacts is the marble statue of the Madonna and Child, commissioned from Antonino Gagini by the Confraternity of Santa Maria del Rosario. Originally intended for the Chapel of San Giorgio, the statue found its home in the Chiesa di San Domenico due to the presence of marble veining.
Adjacent to the church is the Dominican convent, which, following the enactment of suppressive laws, was initially confiscated for military use. Today, the convent and church together form a monumental complex that stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Dominican order in Caltagirone.
In conclusion, the Chiesa di San Domenico is more than just a religious site; it is a living museum of history, art, and faith. Its walls echo the stories of resilience and devotion that have shaped the community of Caltagirone, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Sicily.
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