Chiesa di San Nicola di Bari

In the heart of Lanciano, Italy, nestled within the charming streets of the Sacca district, stands the Chiesa di San Nicola di Bari, a testament to centuries of faith, resilience, and architectural evolution. This historic church, with its roots stretching back to the 13th century, invites visitors to explore its rich tapestry of history and artistry.

The History of Chiesa di San Nicola di Bari

Chiesa di San Nicola di Bari was built on the ashes of the ancient Church of San Pellegrino, which was tragically destroyed by fire in 1226. By 1242 or 1292, the new church was completed, making it one of the earliest religious edifices in the area. Its significance grew in 1319 when it was designated a parish church. The original Gothic style, characterized by its pointed arches and ornate detailing, was later complemented by Baroque enhancements in the 17th century, which expanded its structure to include three naves.

However, by 1868, the church was in need of restoration. Architect Filippo Sargiacomo undertook this task, infusing the church with a neoclassical style. While this renovation preserved the church's structural integrity, it obscured some of its original frescoes and artistic details. A more recent restoration in the 1990s revealed the stunning frescoes of the Stories of the True Cross within the bell tower, offering a glimpse into the church’s medieval past.

Exploring the Architectural Marvel

The Chiesa di San Nicola di Bari presents a fascinating blend of architectural styles. Its façade, overlooking Corso Garibaldi, retains its Gothic base with an ogival portal topped by a polystyle tympanum. The statue of San Nicola, flanked by the coats of arms of the city of Lanciano and the Ricci family, stands as a guardian over the entrance. The upper portion of the church, with its neoclassical influences, reflects the 19th-century renovations.

The imposing late Gothic bell tower, adorned with bifore windows, adds a touch of medieval grandeur. The tower's lower order, originally featuring more bifore windows, now reveals only one, with the others having been sealed over time. The tower’s summit is crowned with four angular dentils, adding to its stately presence.

The Interior: A Sanctuary of Art and Faith

Inside, the church's three naves are divided into four regular bays, each covered by a vaulted ceiling. The central nave, supported by Corinthian pilasters and Doric columns, is a masterpiece of neoclassical design. The asymmetrical layout of the side naves, dictated by the natural contours of the hill, adds a unique character to the interior space.

The presbytery, originally intended to feature a semi-dome with a lantern, now boasts a spherical calotte adorned with geometric and floral motifs. The main altar, completed in 1910, houses a niche with a neoclassical edicule, showcasing the statue of Saint Nicholas saving children from drowning—a poignant representation of faith and protection.

Artistic Treasures and Relics

The side altars are dedicated to various saints, including Saint Joseph with the Child, the Sacred Heart, and the Sepulchres. Of particular note is the icon of the Madonna and Child, affectionately known as Mamma Nostra, a revered image among the local community. The church also houses a precious octagonal wooden baptismal font, adorned with a depiction of Christ’s Baptism, with a counterpart displayed in the Diocesan Museum of Lanciano.

The stained glass windows, crafted by Michele Cianfrone in 1999, add a vibrant touch of color and light, commemorating the Jubilee of 2000. These windows, with their intricate designs, narrate stories of devotion and divine intervention.

The Parish Museum: A Vault of History

In the year 2000, the parish priest Don Leo Di Felice established a museum within the church’s underground chambers. This museum is a treasure trove of religious artifacts, including a gilded silver reliquary by Nicola De Franca, which houses the jawbone of Saint Blaise. Visitors can also marvel at copies of paintings by Francesco De Mura, depicting the Deposition from the Cross and the Pietà, along with a rich collection of sacred vestments, chalices, and other ecclesiastical items.

Among the museum’s holdings are fragments from the old Church of San Pellegrino, including late Romanesque capitals carved from Maiella stone and a 16th-century basin adorned with grotesque masks. These artifacts offer a tangible connection to the church’s storied past.

The Frescoes of the True Cross

During the 1990s restoration, a remarkable cycle of frescoes depicting the Stories of the True Cross was uncovered beneath the bell tower. Inspired by the Golden Legend of Jacopo da Varagine, these 14th-century frescoes illustrate various episodes from Christian lore, including the death of Adam, the cutting of the tree by Solomon, and the adoration of the sacred wood by the Queen of Sheba.

These frescoes, restored by the Superintendency of L'Aquila, are a testament to the artistic and spiritual heritage of the church. They offer a vivid portrayal of medieval religious narratives, blending historical events with theological symbolism.

In conclusion, the Chiesa di San Nicola di Bari is not merely a place of worship; it is a living museum of faith and history. Its walls echo with the prayers of generations, while its art and architecture continue to inspire awe and reverence. For visitors to Lanciano, this church is not to be missed—a sacred space where the past and present converge in a harmonious celebration of devotion and artistry.