Chiesa dei Santi Martino e Rosa

In the charming town of Conegliano, nestled in the Veneto region of Italy, stands the magnificent Chiesa dei Santi Martino e Rosa. This sacred edifice, with its storied past and striking architecture, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the rich tapestry of history and art that it holds within its walls.

The History of Chiesa dei Santi Martino e Rosa

The origins of the Chiesa dei Santi Martino e Rosa date back to the early 14th century, when it was initially connected to a monastery. The church as we see it today was reconstructed between 1674 and 1730, under the auspices of the Dominican friars. This reconstruction gave the church its current appearance, which has been preserved through the centuries.

Two significant events marked the church's history in the early 20th century. Firstly, the façade, which was supposed to be designed by architect Vincenzo Rinaldo, was never completed, leaving the front of the church plain and unadorned. Secondly, during World War I, the church suffered extensive damage from bombings, necessitating a comprehensive restoration.

Since 1921, the church has been under the care of the Giuseppini del Murialdo, the first religious order to take charge after Napoleon's suppression of the convent in 1806. Today, the Chiesa dei Santi Martino e Rosa stands proudly in its namesake square, overlooking the Monticano River, a testament to its enduring legacy.

Exploring the Exterior

The exterior of the Chiesa dei Santi Martino e Rosa is characterized by its unembellished façade, constructed from exposed brick. Despite its simplicity, the façade exudes a certain rustic charm. The main entrance is a round-arched portal framed by a simple stone surround, above which sits a large tripartite lunette window that allows light to flood into the nave.

Flanking the church are robust buttresses, which on the right side are separated from the square by a stone wall. This wall encloses the protruding chapels along the nave. The apse at the rear of the church is a rectangular structure that once bordered a cemetery. Adjacent to the church on the north side is a modest bell tower, featuring biforate windows at the belfry level, adding to the church's quaint yet sturdy appearance.

Discovering the Interior

Stepping inside the Chiesa dei Santi Martino e Rosa, visitors are greeted by a single nave flanked by six side chapels. The elevated presbytery, accessible by a series of steps, draws the eye to the main altar and the church's most treasured artwork, the Adoration of the Shepherds by Francesco da Milano. This masterpiece depicts a tender scene of the Madonna and St. Joseph adoring the Christ Child, surrounded by angels and shepherds, all bathed in the warm glow of a setting sun.

The choir also houses significant artworks, including Sante Peranda's Last Supper (1615) and Ludovico Pozzoserrato's Saints Sebastian, Roch, and Barbara (1590). The nave features a 17th-century wooden pulpit adorned with intricate bas-reliefs, crafted by an artist from the school of Andrea Brustolon.

Another highlight of the church's interior is the organ, crafted by De Lorenzi in 1862 and meticulously restored in 2010. The organ's rich tones and historical significance add to the church's serene and contemplative atmosphere.

The Dominican Convent

Adjacent to the church is the two-story building that once served as the Dominican convent. This 18th-century structure, located along the Monticano River, has a storied past, having housed the Marras Barracks, the birthplace of the 6th and 7th Alpine regiments and the Conegliano Mountain Artillery Group. Despite its varied uses over the years, the building retains its monastic character, with a long façade featuring round-arched windows on the ground floor and rectangular windows on the upper floor, surrounding a central courtyard.

Currently awaiting restoration, the former convent is slated to become the new home of the municipal library, ensuring that this historic site continues to serve the community in a meaningful way.

The Alpini Museum

Within the convent's courtyard, enclosed by a stone wall, stands a small, single-story building that has been transformed into the Alpini Museum. Managed by the local Alpini association, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and traditions of the Alpini, Italy's elite mountain infantry. From this point, visitors can also access the Alpini walkway, a scenic pedestrian path along the river that connects the San Martino Bridge with the Madonna Bridge.

In conclusion, the Chiesa dei Santi Martino e Rosa in Conegliano is not just a place of worship but a beacon of history, art, and community spirit. Its walls tell stories of resilience and devotion, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Veneto region. Whether you're drawn by its historical significance, its artistic treasures, or its tranquil setting, this church offers a profound and enriching experience.