Santa Maria dell'Assunta, locally known as Chiesa di Maria Santissima Assunta, stands as a beacon of historical and architectural splendor in the charming town of Modugno, Italy. This remarkable church, with its roots deeply embedded in the fabric of the town's history, offers a captivating journey through time for any visitor fortunate enough to step through its doors.
The origins of Santa Maria dell'Assunta trace back to a modest chapel dedicated to Saint Sebastian, situated outside the city walls. This chapel, originally under the ownership of the Archbishopric Chapter of Bari, was transferred to the Chapter of Modugno in 1505 in exchange for an annual payment of 50 pounds of wax, a transaction that some historical sources date to 1507.
Throughout the centuries, the church evolved both in structure and significance. In the early 18th century, under the guidance of Archpriest Gian Battista Stella, two additional chapels were constructed, dedicated to Saint Philip Neri and the Holy Family. The church, which was referred to by the name of Saint Philip Neri until 1797, eventually became known as Santa Maria dell'Assunta, reflecting its dedication to the Assumption of Mary and housing the eponymous confraternity.
The Confraternity of the Assumption, established by Jesuit Father Domenico Bruno in 1721, played a crucial role in promoting Marian devotion. The confraternity's statutes received royal approval from Ferdinand IV of Naples in 1797. Historically, the church has been a place of support for the poor and the sick, a mission inherited and continued by the confraternity.
As you approach Santa Maria dell'Assunta, the first sight to greet you is its stunning 17th-century façade. The rectangular portal, accessible via three steps, bears an inscription marking the year 1535, a poignant reminder of the plague victims buried beneath the churchyard. The richly decorated entablature above the portal features intricate bas-reliefs of pomegranates and shells, along with the monogram of Mary Assumed (MA) and the inscription Indulgenza Plenaria, referring to the plenary indulgence granted by Pope Pius VII in 1807.
Crowning the façade is a Spanish Baroque bell tower from the 18th century, a two-tiered structure adorned with wrought iron railings and an acroterion supported by angels at its apex. This architectural marvel is a testament to the church's enduring beauty and historical significance.
Stepping inside, you'll find a church layout comprising three naves. The central nave, part of the original structure, is flanked by two lateral naves added during the 18th-century expansion. The central nave features two bays with cross vaults, while the side chapels are topped with sail vaults. Four oval windows, two in each lateral nave, bathe the interior in soft, natural light, enhancing the serene atmosphere.
One of the most striking features inside the church is the wooden choir loft above the entrance, complete with a balustrade and an organ dating back to 1815. The main altar, a focal point of devotion, is adorned with a golden-framed niche housing a wooden statue of the Assumption of Mary. This statue, commissioned by the Confraternity of the Assumption in 1797, was crafted by Venetian artisans. According to local legend, the statue's journey from Venice was fraught with peril, culminating in its miraculous arrival at a coastal site near Molfetta.
The left chapel, originally dedicated to the Holy Family, now contains a statue of Saint Sebastian and a painting of the Assumption. The right chapel is home to a statue and a painting of Saint Philip Neri, reflecting the church's historical dedication to the saint.
To the left of the entrance stands an altar dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows, enclosed by an iron railing. This altar, along with a statue of Our Lady of Sorrows, commemorates the presence of the Third Order of Our Lady of Sorrows, established in the church in 1888 by Fra' Pietro Maria Testa.
Adding to the church's rich tapestry of history is the Via Crucis, established within the church in 1851. The series of paintings depicting the Stations of the Cross serves as a poignant reminder of the church's devotional heritage.
Santa Maria dell'Assunta is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of faith, art, and history. Each corner of the church tells a story, from its humble beginnings as a chapel to its current status as a cherished landmark in Modugno. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a pilgrim, a visit to Santa Maria dell'Assunta promises a deeply enriching experience, leaving you with a profound appreciation for this architectural gem and its enduring legacy.
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