San Francesco Saverio

San Francesco Saverio, known locally as Chiesa di San Francesco Saverio, is a remarkable neoclassical church nestled in the heart of Foggia, Italy. This architectural gem, with its striking Ionic portico and elegant dome, is a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region. The church's origins date back to the early 18th century, and it has since undergone numerous transformations, each adding to its historical and aesthetic value.

The History of San Francesco Saverio

The exact date of the church's construction remains a mystery, but it is known that Bishop E. G. Cavalieri of Troia envisioned the creation of a chapel for the Jesuits in Foggia during the second decade of the 1700s. This chapel was intended to serve the local community and provide spiritual guidance, a mission that the Jesuits embraced until they left the city in 1739. The construction of an adjacent college for young men was also part of the bishop's plan, but it was never completed due to the devastating earthquake of 1731.

By 1735, during the pastoral visit of Bishop Faccolli, the existence of the church dedicated to St. Francis Xavier was confirmed. Despite the Jesuits' departure, the church continued to serve the community, with spiritual support provided by the nearby Parish of St. Mary. In the 1760s, the Congregation of the Holy Souls of the Priests, later known as the Congregation of the Distinguished Clergy, adopted the church as their own. This congregation was officially recognized in 1764 and took on the responsibility of maintaining the church and ensuring the spiritual welfare of the local clergy.

Architectural Evolution

Originally a modest structure, San Francesco Saverio underwent significant renovations in the early 19th century. In 1827, the church was described as a crude dwelling by the municipal council of Foggia, prompting a series of improvements to enhance its appearance and functionality. By 1832, the church had become the seat of the newly established parish of the same name, complete with sacristy, parish office, and living quarters for the parish priest.

Further transformations took place in the mid-20th century, particularly under the guidance of parish priest Don Antonio Iocola. In 1950, the church's floor was replaced with white and bardiglio marble, and in 1957, the main entrance was restored. The church's bell tower and external wall were also stabilized and waterproofed. The most extensive renovations occurred between 1958 and 1961, when the old residential buildings adjacent to the church were demolished to make way for new parish facilities, including a new rectory and parish offices.

Liturgical and Structural Changes

The Second Vatican Council's liturgical reforms in the 1960s prompted further modifications to the church's interior. Starting in 1968, the presbytery was redesigned to accommodate the new liturgical norms. This included the removal of the three existing altars and the presbytery's balustrade, the creation of a new celebrant's seat in the center of the apse, and the installation of a new Eucharistic table made of Apricena stone. Additionally, a chapel for the Blessed Sacrament and a baptistery were added, and the church's electrical and heating systems were upgraded.

The church's interior was repainted, and new stained glass windows were installed to replace the old ones. A wooden crucifix from the mid-18th century was placed at the back of the apse, and statues of St. Francis Xavier and the Madonna were restored and repositioned. The church also acquired a new tabernacle and several artistic metal panels from the Legnaghi company in Verona, as well as an electrified bell system from the Scarselli company in Florence.

Modern Enhancements

In the late 20th century, additional improvements were made to the church and its facilities. In 1997, the electrical system was completely overhauled to meet modern safety standards, following a fire caused by a short circuit that had damaged the sacristy and destroyed some parish records. The church's annexed rooms were also renovated to serve as parish offices, catechism classrooms, meeting rooms, a theater hall, and play areas.

San Francesco Saverio was solemnly consecrated by Monsignor De Giorgi in 1982, marking the 150th anniversary of its establishment as a parish. Today, the church stands as a beacon of faith and community in Foggia, offering a serene and inspiring place of worship for locals and visitors alike.

Whether you are drawn to its historical significance, architectural beauty, or spiritual ambiance, San Francesco Saverio is a must-visit destination in Foggia. Its storied past and continuous evolution reflect the enduring spirit and resilience of the community it serves, making it a cherished landmark in this charming Italian city.