San Martino Sanctuary

The San Martino Sanctuary, known locally as Santuario di San Martino, stands as a beacon of history and faith in the city of Cinisello Balsamo, Italy. This religious edifice, dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, has been a cornerstone of the local community for centuries, witnessing the evolution of the town from its earliest days to the bustling modern era.

The Historical Tapestry of San Martino Sanctuary

The origins of the San Martino Sanctuary date back to the late 13th century when it was first mentioned in historical records as the Ecclesia Sancti Martini. This early building was part of the Pieve of Desio, a testament to its long-standing significance in the region. The church's initial structure was notable for its considerable size, featuring at least two altars, one of which was dedicated to the Madonna and located in a side chapel along the southern wall.

Throughout the centuries, the sanctuary has undergone numerous changes, each reflecting the architectural and cultural shifts of the times. The mid-16th century saw the first detailed records of the church through pastoral visits, which were crucial for documenting and often prompting renovations of religious buildings. A significant transformation occurred in 1597 when a project led by a certain Moneta proposed a series of enhancements, including the reshaping of the apse from semicircular to square and the addition of a polygonal baptistery. These renovations were completed in the early 17th century, resulting in a more substantial and stylistically updated church.

A Journey Through Time

As the centuries progressed, the San Martino Sanctuary continued to evolve. In 1856, a new bell tower, soaring over 60 meters high, was completed under the guidance of Don Giovanni Prato, the then-parish priest of Balsamo. This tower became a prominent feature of the sanctuary, housing five historic bells that survived the requisitions of World War II thanks to the cunning efforts of Don Piero Carcano.

The early 20th century brought further significant changes under Don Antonio Colombo. The church was expanded to its current dimensions, adopting a Latin cross plan with three naves—one central and two lateral. This period also saw the addition of the Pio XI Oratory in 1923, designed by architect Oreste Scanavini, further enhancing the church's role as a community hub.

Architectural Splendor

The San Martino Sanctuary's exterior presents a striking white facade, punctuated by a semicircular stained-glass window and several statues. The facade clearly delineates the church's internal structure, with six pilasters framing the three entrances. The main portal, crafted from intricately carved wood, is adorned with a mix of vegetal motifs and a central shield featuring a cross. Flanking the main entrance are statues of Saint Martin and Saint Anne with the Virgin Mary as a child, adding a touch of reverence and artistic beauty.

Above the main entrance, a thick cornice separates the lower and upper sections of the facade, with the inscription DIVO MARTINO DICATUM prominently displayed. The upper section features a large semicircular window, flanked by stucco reliefs of cherubs and vegetal garlands. Crowning the facade is a triangular pediment, topped with a statue of the Blessing Virgin holding a large cross, flanked by two cherubs, creating a visually captivating and spiritually uplifting sight.

The Towering Bell Tower

Standing at the southwestern extremity of the sanctuary, the bell tower is a square structure painted in a warm ochre hue, capped with a red cupola. Each side of the tower features a clock, and the belfry houses five bells. These bells, dating back to the pre-war era, were saved from being melted down during World War II thanks to the efforts of Don Piero Carcano, who managed to hide them until the conflict ended.

The Sanctuary's Interior: A Canvas of Faith

Inside, the San Martino Sanctuary is adorned with a series of frescoes painted by Lombard artist Carlo Farina, starting in 1892. These frescoes embellish the ceiling of the central nave with images of flying putti and episcopal emblems, while the four pendentives of the dome feature the four Evangelists—Saint Matthew with an angel, Saint Mark with a lion, Saint John with an eagle, and Saint Luke writing the Gospel. The dome itself is a masterpiece, showcasing a celestial scene that draws the eyes and hearts of visitors upwards in contemplation.

A Sanctuary for the Ages

Despite the construction of a new parish church in the mid-20th century to accommodate the growing population of Cinisello Balsamo, the San Martino Sanctuary remains a cherished landmark. Although its role has diminished over the years, it continues to serve as a site for occasional masses and special celebrations. In 2012, an earthquake caused some damage, leading to the temporary closure of the building for safety reasons. However, restoration work, particularly on the bell tower, was completed in 2022, allowing the bells to ring out once more.

Today, the San Martino Sanctuary stands as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the Cinisello Balsamo community. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this charming Italian town.