Madonna di Campagna

Madonna di Campagna, known locally as Chiesa di Madonna di Campagna, is a captivating Renaissance church nestled in the picturesque town of Verbania, Italy. This architectural gem stands as a testament to the region's rich history and artistic heritage, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore its serene beauty and intricate details.

The History of Madonna di Campagna

The origins of Madonna di Campagna trace back to the 13th century when it was originally a humble chapel known as Santa Maria de Agro. This chapel was renowned for housing an exquisite fresco dedicated to the Madonna del Latte, which drew numerous pilgrims to the area. The chapel's location was then quite isolated, situated near the San Bernardino River, which flowed much closer to the church than it does today. Nearby, a lazaretto provided care for the poor and the sick, making this site a sanctuary of both spiritual and physical healing.

In the 16th century, the local inhabitants of Suna decided to reconstruct the chapel, transforming it into the magnificent sanctuary we see today. The renowned architect Giovanni Beretta from Brissago was commissioned for this ambitious project. Construction began in 1519 and was completed in 1527, although some historical records suggest that the bishop's permission to demolish the previous structure wasn't granted until 1525. The only part of the original Romanesque building that remains is the bell tower, which dates back to approximately 1075.

Architectural Marvels

Madonna di Campagna is a national monument and a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. The church is divided into three naves, crowned by an octagonal dome with a loggia. The interior of the dome features mid-16th-century frescoes influenced by the Gaudenzian style, attributed to the Valsesian workshop of the Cavallazzi. These frescoes are a visual feast, showcasing the artistic prowess of the period.

Further enriching the church's interior are the works of Carlo Urbino and Aurelio Luini, who in 1575 adorned the presbytery's arches, the three apses, and the terminal spans with their masterful paintings. The chapel dedicated to the Madonna delle Grazie is particularly noteworthy, housing a 15th-century fresco and decorated with stuccoes and paintings by Camillo Procaccini, created between 1594 and 1596.

Intricate Woodwork

The central apse's wooden choir, crafted between 1580 and 1582, is the work of the skilled woodcarver Giovanni Andrea Merzagora from Vigezzo. His artistry is also evident in the pulpit and the wooden ciborium of the baptismal font, completed around 1584. These intricate woodworks add a warm, tactile dimension to the church's serene interior, inviting visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era.

The Majestic Organ

One of the church's most impressive features is the grand organ built by Alessandro Mentasti in 1892, which was meticulously restored by Mascioni in 1990. Positioned above the main entrance, this majestic instrument fills the church with its resonant tones, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere and providing a soundtrack to the church's timeless beauty.

A Place of Historical Significance

Madonna di Campagna's historical significance extends beyond its architectural and artistic treasures. In 1572, Cardinal Giovanni Antonio Serbelloni, the Bishop of Novara, decreed that the church would serve as the parish seat for both Suna and Villa di Pallanza, to be shared by the two parishes. This arrangement, though fraught with difficulties, lasted until 1822 when Cardinal Giuseppe Morozzo Della Rocca assigned a subsidiary church to the parish of Villa di Pallanza, leaving Madonna di Campagna as the parish church of Suna until a new church was built in the locality.

Modern Surroundings

While the area surrounding Madonna di Campagna was once a rural landscape, it has since evolved. By the 1930s, the vicinity had transformed into an industrial zone, home to the Rhodiatoce complex in the post-war period. Despite these changes, the church remains a serene and spiritual haven, a stark contrast to its more modern surroundings.

In conclusion, Madonna di Campagna is not just a church; it is a living chronicle of Verbania's history, art, and culture. Its walls, adorned with centuries-old frescoes and intricate woodwork, tell stories of devotion, artistry, and community. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to Madonna di Campagna promises a rich and rewarding experience, offering a glimpse into the timeless beauty and enduring spirit of this remarkable sanctuary.