Nestled in the heart of Castellammare di Stabia, the Santa Maria della Pace, known locally as Chiesa e monastero di Santa Maria della Pace, stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural beauty of this charming Italian town. This monumental complex, with its intriguing past and artistic treasures, is a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.
The origins of Santa Maria della Pace date back to the early 16th century when a Carmelite monastery was established in 1525. This was followed by the construction of the church in 1587, a project that added spiritual and architectural significance to the area. Over the centuries, the church underwent several restorations, most notably in 1820, when it was reconsecrated, and again at the close of the 19th century.
In 1866, the abolition of religious orders in the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies led to the abandonment of the church and monastery. The complex was eventually entrusted to the local community, marking a new chapter in its storied history. In 1937, Santa Maria della Pace became a parish seat, further cementing its role as a spiritual and cultural hub.
The church’s façade is a striking example of classical architecture, featuring an imposing entablature crowned with a triangular pediment and an iron cross. The entrance, framed by a robust iron gate, is adorned with a cornice supported by brackets, above which sits an elliptical rose window. Flanking the entrance are pairs of pilasters resting on tall bases, adding to the grandeur of the structure.
Inside, the church follows a Latin cross layout with a single nave and five side chapels. The vaulted ceiling, painted by Angiolo Ferrari in 1820, depicts the prophet Elijah on a fiery chariot, a vivid and captivating artwork that draws the eye upward.
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The main altar is home to a statue of Santa Maria della Pace, crafted between 1870 and 1879. This 19th-century statue, restored after World War II, is embellished with silver details and dressed in a gold-trimmed robe. Originally, an image of the Sacred Heart of Mary occupied this space, reflecting the evolving artistic and religious tastes over time.
To the sides of the main altar are notable artworks, including a painting of the Nativity of the Virgin, attributed to either Giulio Romano or Bartolomeo Passante, and an 18th-century depiction of Saint Anne with the young Madonna.
The first chapel on the left, as you enter, is dedicated to Saint Teresa of Ávila. It features a painting by Sebastiano Conca depicting the saint with the Blessed Virgin. The second chapel honors Saint Expeditus, showcasing a statue by Raffaele Della Campa, brought to the city by train in 1902 and temporarily housed in the Church of the Carmine before finding its permanent home here.
Other chapels include one dedicated to the Madonna of the Rosary, featuring an early 20th-century painting, and the Chapel of the Crucifix, which contains a papier-mâché statue of the crucifixion crafted by Cesarini, flanked by smaller statues representing the souls in purgatory.
Behind the church, the once-thriving monastery now stands in a state of neglect. Built in 1525, it was initially occupied by Carmelite nuns until the expulsion of religious orders in 1866. Over the years, the monastery served various purposes, from a courthouse to a shelter for the homeless, reflecting the changing needs of the community.
The monastery's architecture, characterized by a rectangular plan and a central cloister, remains a fascinating glimpse into the past. Its entrance, now sealed, features a finely decorated piperno doorway and a full-arch design, hinting at the grandeur that once was.
Today, Santa Maria della Pace stands as a beacon of history and faith in Castellammare di Stabia. Its walls echo the stories of centuries past, inviting visitors to explore its sacred spaces and admire its artistic treasures. Whether you're drawn by its spiritual significance or its architectural beauty, a visit to this historic complex offers a rich and rewarding experience.
In conclusion, Santa Maria della Pace is more than just a church and monastery; it is a symbol of resilience and transformation, mirroring the vibrant history of Castellammare di Stabia itself. As you walk through its halls, you become a part of its enduring legacy, a testament to the timeless allure of this remarkable Italian landmark.
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