Saint Eusebius of Vercelli Church

Saint Eusebius of Vercelli Church, known locally as Chiesetta di Sant'Eusebio, is a hidden gem nestled in the serene neighborhood of Cinisello Balsamo, Italy. This quaint yet historically rich church stands as a testament to centuries of faith, resilience, and community spirit.

The Historical Tapestry of Saint Eusebius of Vercelli Church

The origins of Saint Eusebius of Vercelli Church are shrouded in the mists of time, with some historical artifacts suggesting its existence as far back as the 4th century. Initially, the area served as a burial ground during the late pagan era, which later evolved into a Christian oratory. While the exact date of the church's foundation remains uncertain, historian Luciano Caramel posits that it could be traced back to the late 10th or early 11th century. This makes it the oldest place of worship in the territories of Cinisello and Balsamo.

The church is dedicated to Saint Eusebius, the Bishop of Vercelli, who once held jurisdiction over these lands. The Liber notitiae sanctorum Mediolani, a document from 1298, mentions this dedication. However, by the mid-16th century, the church had fallen into a state of disrepair. In 1567, Leonetto Clivone, on a pastoral visit commissioned by Carlo Borromeo, described the church as being in poor condition, with a closed building, lacking in furnishings and a ceiling. Despite this, it remained a significant site for local worshippers, especially during Easter.

Restoration and Resilience

Over the centuries, Saint Eusebius of Vercelli Church underwent several restorations. By the late 16th century, another visit by Carlo Borromeo revealed further deterioration, with rainwater infiltration damaging the floors and walls. It wasn't until 1612, under the inspection of Federico Borromeo, that significant restoration efforts were mandated. The altar was rebuilt, the walls were repaired and whitewashed, and a ban was placed on any celebrations within the church until the renovations were completed. These efforts bore fruit, and the church resumed its role as a place of worship.

In 1670, the church was expanded with the addition of a sacristy. Despite its location outside the main inhabited area, along the road to Nova Milanese, the church was constructed using humble materials available locally. It features a single rectangular hall with an apse, oriented to the east.

The most significant restoration took place around 1879, under the guidance of Vitaliano Rossi, the parish priest of Sant'Ambrogio. This restoration included isolating the building within a seven-meter perimeter, underpinning the entire structure with robust bricks, river sand, and fresh lime. The internal crawl space was cleared of soil and filled with pebbles and coarse gravel, over which the floor was laid. Ancient windows in the apse were reopened, and two painted figures on the left wall were restored. Additionally, the sacristy was expanded, and a small bell tower with a clock and two bells was erected, marking this restoration with an inscription at the base of the tower.

Architectural and Artistic Treasures

The church's historical significance is further highlighted by the discoveries made during the restorations. These include the decoration of the apsidal base with animals (a fish, a rooster, and a serpent) and vegetal motifs, dating back to the church's initial construction phase. The Romanesque windows, reopened during the restoration, and the frescoes on the left wall, dating from the 14th to 15th centuries, add to the church's rich tapestry. The original inscription of Marcellinus, found during the restorations, provides valuable insights into the church's history.

Inside the church, visitors can admire a variety of frescoes from different periods. These include a Madonna del Latte on the northern wall, surrounded by a Crucifixion scene from the 14th to 15th centuries, a depiction of Saint Dorothy from the 17th century, and representations of Saint Liberata and Saint Lucia from the 19th century. In 1918, a fresco depicting Saint Eusebius enthroned between angels was added to the apsidal basin, though it was later removed during an invasive restoration.

Myths and Legends

Saint Eusebius of Vercelli Church is also the subject of local legends. One such tale suggests that Queen Theodelinda had a dream within the church that led her to convert to Christianity and subsequently build the Monza Cathedral. Another popular but unfounded legend speaks of a secret passage connecting the Monza Cathedral to this small church. However, these stories have been debunked by historical reconstructions and the practical impossibility of such a passage, given the humble materials used in the church's construction.

In conclusion, Saint Eusebius of Vercelli Church is a remarkable blend of history, architecture, and local lore. Its enduring presence in Cinisello Balsamo stands as a testament to the community's faith and resilience. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, this charming church offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Italy's ecclesiastical heritage.