Santissimo Rosario

Nestled in the charming town of Favara, Italy, the Church of Santissimo Rosario, known locally as Chiesa del Santissimo Rosario, stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of the region. This national monument, with its Baroque facade and intriguing interior, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the religious and cultural heritage of Favara.

The Historical Journey of Santissimo Rosario

The story of Santissimo Rosario begins in 1705 when construction commenced on the site of an earlier church that had been built in 1608. The original church was relatively new at the time, having been established shortly after the creation of the Confraternity of Santa Maria del Rosario within the Church of Maria Assunta in 1598. However, it was decided that a new and grander structure was needed, and thus the current church was built between 1705 and 1711, primarily funded by the priest Antonino Miceli.

The church's history is marked by various architectural modifications and restorations. Notably, a bell tower was added in 1755 by master builder Baldassare Pagano and completed in 1757 by Ludovico Catalano. The church's exterior has also seen recent changes, including the addition of a stone base on the west side and a large door on the east side that leads directly into the crypt, a unique feature for an 18th-century church.

Architectural Marvels of the Exterior

The facade of Santissimo Rosario is a fine example of Baroque architecture, characterized by its gable roof and limestone entrance portal. The bell tower, an addition from the mid-18th century, adds to the church's imposing presence. This blend of architectural styles and periods gives the church a distinctive appearance that reflects the evolving tastes and influences over the centuries.

The Enchanting Interior

Stepping inside Santissimo Rosario, visitors are greeted by the original 19th-century majolica tile floor, which, despite being heavily worn, has been lovingly restored. The central section of the floor features tiles that were originally part of the lateral bands, which have since been replaced with reddish tiles. This patchwork of old and new adds to the church's unique charm.

One of the most striking features of the interior is the coffered ceiling, adorned with depictions of numerous saints. The presence of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, canonized in 1622 and a figure of considerable controversy from 1715 until the expulsion of the Jesuits from Sicily in 1767, suggests that the ceiling paintings were completed around the time the church was finished in 1711. The presbytery's ceiling, added in 1804, was crafted from fir wood sourced from the forests of Santo Stefano Quisquina, with the design and execution overseen by master carpenters Santo Amico and Michele Lentini.

Artistic Treasures and Religious Significance

The church's walls are decorated with exquisite stucco work completed between 1753 and 1754 by master craftsman Calogero Pullara, who also created the Chapel of Saint Francis of Paola in 1754. Among the many paintings within the church, an especially noteworthy fresco on the left wall of the presbytery depicts Saint Dominic in prayer with the Madonna of the Rosary. This fresco, uncovered during recent restorations, highlights the church's dedication to the Rosary, a prayer instituted by Saint Dominic himself.

On the right side of the presbytery, visitors will find an image of Saint Thomas Aquinas, while the right lateral wall houses the altar of Saint Joseph, redesigned in a Neoclassical style during the 19th century. The statue of Saint Joseph, now the most venerated in Favara, dates from the same period. The lower part of the altar, originally made of wood, was rebuilt in marble following a fire in 1950.

Opposite the altar of Saint Joseph is the altar of the Holy Crucifix, featuring a beautifully crafted crucifix. The main altar's niche houses a statue of the Madonna of the Rosary with Saint Dominic. Surrounding this niche are fifteen small medallions depicting the Mysteries of the Rosary, although one medallion has sadly been lost over time.

Exploring the Crypt

One of the most intriguing aspects of Santissimo Rosario is its crypt, discovered relatively recently. Accessible through a small staircase from the main floor, the crypt contains the remains of many individuals buried there over the centuries. The crypt was restored in March 1779 by master craftsman Calogero Montalbano, adding another layer to the church's rich history.

The Church of Santissimo Rosario in Favara is more than just a place of worship; it is a living museum of art, history, and faith. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to this remarkable church offers a glimpse into the past and a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage of Favara.