Santa Maria di Pozzano

Nestled in the picturesque hills of Castellammare di Stabia, the Santa Maria di Pozzano, also known locally as Basilica santuario di Santa Maria di Pozzano, stands as a beacon of history, devotion, and architectural splendor. This minor basilica and sanctuary, cherished by locals and visitors alike, offers a serene escape into a world where history and spirituality intertwine seamlessly.

The History of Santa Maria di Pozzano

The origins of Santa Maria di Pozzano trace back to the early 15th century when a small church was constructed near a well where, according to tradition, a miraculous image of the Madonna was discovered. This site, which had once been home to a Roman temple dedicated to the goddess Diana, has long been a place of worship and reverence. Evidence of its ancient past includes a marble column found during excavations in 1585, now positioned near a cross at the basilica's entrance.

Throughout its history, Santa Maria di Pozzano has witnessed numerous transformations. In 1447, the church came under the care of Franciscan friars, only to be expelled shortly after by Ferdinand I of Aragon. However, the friars' devotion to the Virgin Mary led to their eventual return in 1506, sanctioned by Pope Julius II. With the support of notable figures such as Bishop Antonio Flores and the Governor of Naples, Corrado Ferrante, a larger church was constructed between 1506 and 1539.

The 18th century marked a period of significant expansion and embellishment for the sanctuary. The church's interior was adorned with artworks by renowned artists like Sebastiano Conca, Girolamo Cenatiempo, and Giacinto Diano. The sacristy, redesigned by the esteemed architect Luigi Vanvitelli in 1754, and the construction of the new high altar and the chapel of St. Francis, further enhanced the basilica's grandeur.

Despite facing periods of decline, such as during the suppression of religious houses in the 19th century, Santa Maria di Pozzano has always found a way to rise from its ashes. The solemn consecration of the church in 1874 and the crowning of the Virgin's image in 1875 were pivotal moments in its revival. In 1916, Pope Benedict XV elevated the church to the status of a pontifical basilica, solidifying its importance in the religious landscape of the region.

Exploring Santa Maria di Pozzano

Visitors to Santa Maria di Pozzano are greeted by a simple yet elegant facade featuring three entrance portals and a triangular pediment. The central portal, adorned with a protruding tympanum, invites you into a world of tranquility and reverence. The basilica's interior, designed in the shape of a Latin cross, spans 38 meters in length, 13 meters in height, and 9 meters in width. The spacious central nave, with its coffered ceiling crafted in 1675, is flanked by two narrow side aisles and eight side chapels.

One of the most captivating features of the basilica is the high altar, a masterpiece from the 18th century. Crafted from polychrome marble by the Ragozzino brothers, the altar is adorned with a painting depicting the Archangel Gabriel and two side canvases illustrating the Nativity and the imprisonment of St. Jerome, both by Paolo De Matteis. Behind the altar, a wooden choir from the 17th century adds to the basilica's historic charm.

The chapel dedicated to the Virgin of Pozzano is a focal point of devotion. The miraculous image of the Madonna is enshrined in a small temple adorned with Sicilian breccia, mother-of-pearl, and lapis lazuli. The chapel's frescoes, depicting scenes from the life of Mary and the discovery of the image, further enrich the spiritual experience.

Another highlight is the sacristy, also known as the Chapel of the Crucifix, which houses a wooden crucifix discovered in 1631. The sacristy's walls are adorned with three large paintings by Sebastiano Conca, illustrating the discovery of the crucifix at sea. The ceiling features a circular painting by Giacinto Diano, depicting the apotheosis of St. Francis of Paola.

The Campanile and Crypt

The basilica's campanile, constructed in 1585, serves both as a bell tower and a watchtower against Saracen incursions. Standing 33 meters tall, the tower's lower section is square, while the belfry is octagonal and crowned with battlements. An azure majolica clock adds a touch of elegance to the structure.

Descending from the central nave, visitors can explore the crypt, where the well associated with the discovery of the Madonna's image is preserved. Originally built shortly after the first church, the crypt was reconstructed in the early 20th century and consecrated in 1904. The main altar, a gift from Pope Pius X, is adorned with a 16th-century bas-relief depicting the Virgin of Carmel and the souls in purgatory. The crypt also serves as a resting place for notable figures from Castellammare di Stabia and houses the remains of soldiers who perished in World War I.

Santa Maria di Pozzano is more than just a place of worship; it is a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the community it serves. Whether you are drawn by its rich history, its artistic treasures, or its serene atmosphere, a visit to this basilica is a journey into the heart of Castellammare di Stabia's spiritual heritage.