Santa Maria a Ripa, known locally as Convento e chiesa di Santa Maria a Ripa, is a captivating ecclesiastical complex located in the western outskirts of Empoli, a charming town in the province of Florence, Italy. This historic site, strategically positioned at the intersection of Via della Repubblica, Via Livornese, and Via Lucchese, offers visitors a glimpse into the rich religious and architectural heritage of the region.
The origins of Santa Maria a Ripa date back to the 12th century, when it was first mentioned as a parish church dedicated to Mary in the village of Ripa, situated just a few hundred meters from the Castello di Empoli. Over the centuries, the church underwent several transformations and name changes, reflecting its evolving role within the community. By the late 15th century, the church had become associated with the influential Adimari family of Florence, who donated the building and surrounding land to the Franciscan Friars Minor Observants, leading to its renaming as Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Construction work on the new church, overseen by the master mason Simone di Mariotto da Settignano, began in 1484 and was largely completed by 1510. The official consecration of the church took place on July 11, 1540, by Bishop Bonaventura Dalmata, marking the culmination of a lengthy process that had been delayed by disputes between the friars and the local clergy over pastoral responsibilities.
The architectural beauty of Santa Maria a Ripa is immediately apparent upon arrival. The church's facade is adorned with a loggia featuring five arches, added between 1573 and 1576. The lunette above each arch was later frescoed by the Bolognese artist Lorenzo Bonini in 1601, depicting scenes from the life of Saint Francis. This elegant loggia provides a welcoming entrance to the church and sets the tone for the artistic treasures within.
Inside, Santa Maria a Ripa boasts a single nave with several side chapels and altars dating from the late 16th century. Each chapel contains remarkable works of art that offer a window into the religious and artistic traditions of the time. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the Chapel of the Passion on the right, which houses the original altarpiece of Christ Carrying the Cross by Ottavio Vannini, now replaced by Jacopo Chimenti's Allegory of the Immaculate Conception, a 1596 copy of a painting by Giorgio Vasari.
Continuing along the right side, the Chapel of the Visitation features a poignant Pietà by Francesco Botticini, dating from the late 1480s. The third chapel is dedicated to Saint Anthony and contains a modern terracotta statue of the saint, while the fourth chapel, dedicated to Saint Lucy, showcases a wooden altar with a canvas by Niccolò Tornioli depicting the saint's martyrdom, created around 1633-1634.
On the left side of the nave, the Chapel of the Assumption is adorned with a polychrome marble altar and Giovanni Antonio Sogliani's 1521 painting of the Madonna in Glory between Saints Jerome and Ildefonso. The Chapel of Saint Francis follows, featuring a stone altar and a terracotta altarpiece by Santi and Benedetto Buglioni, circa 1510, depicting the Madonna and Child with Saints Francis and Julian. The third chapel on this side is dedicated to the Madonna of the Rosary, with a 1585 painting by master Simone. The final chapel, originally dedicated to Saint Zanobi but now known as the Chapel of the Crucifix, contains a late 16th-century wooden crucifix.
One of the notable artistic treasures in the church is a terracotta statue of Saint Lucy by the workshop of Giovanni della Robbia, dating to around 1500, located on the right pillar of the presbytery. Above the entrance, an intricately carved, stuccoed, and painted wooden organ, although in poor condition, adds to the historical ambiance. The organ's core dates back to 1632, crafted by Agostino Romani, and was later modified by Filippo and Antonio Tronci in 1771 and Michelangelo and Paolo Paoli in 1840-42.
In conclusion, Santa Maria a Ripa is not just a place of worship but a repository of history, art, and culture. Its strategic location, architectural elegance, and rich collection of artworks make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the historical and religious heritage of Empoli and the broader region of Tuscany. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to Santa Maria a Ripa promises to be a rewarding and enlightening experience.
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