In the heart of Lecce, Italy, stands a magnificent testament to Baroque architecture and religious heritage: Sant’Irene. Officially known as Chiesa di Sant'Irene, this church is dedicated to Saint Irene of Lecce, who was the city's patron saint until 1656. The church's history, architectural splendor, and religious significance make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the historic city of Lecce.
Sant’Irene was constructed starting in 1591, based on designs by the Theatine architect Francesco Grimaldi. The church was completed and consecrated in 1639 by the Bishop of Brindisi. Over the centuries, Sant’Irene has witnessed significant historical events. In 1797, it was visited by King Ferdinand IV of Naples. Later, in October 1860, it served as the venue for the plebiscite operations that led to Lecce's integration into the Kingdom of Italy. Even though the adjacent Theatine convent was suppressed in 1866, the church remained open for worship and continues to be an active place of devotion to this day. The local parish community celebrates Saint Irene's feast day on May 5th each year, commemorating their beloved patroness.
The exterior of Sant’Irene is a striking example of Baroque architecture, reminiscent of the Basilica of Sant'Andrea della Valle in Rome, where Grimaldi also worked. The façade is divided into two orders, adorned with pilasters connected by festoons. The lower order features empty niches and scrolls, while the upper order boasts a large central window. The central space of the lower order houses the main portal, above which stands a stone statue of Saint Irene, crafted by Mauro Manieri in 1717. Above the cornice, the civic coat of arms of Lecce is prominently displayed. The façade is crowned by a triangular pediment bearing the insignia of the Theatine order, with the Latin dedication to the patron saint, Ad Irene virgini et martiri (To Irene, virgin and martyr), inscribed on the entablature.
Stepping inside Sant’Irene, visitors are greeted by a Latin cross plan with a single nave flanked by three deep chapels on each side, interconnected and characterized by elliptical domes. The left side features altars dedicated to Saint Stephen, with a painting of the saint’s stoning by Antonio Verrio, the Crucifix, and the Virgin of Good Counsel. In the left transept, three altars stand out: the altar of Saint Oronzo, crafted by Francesco Antonio Zimbalo in the mid-17th century; the altar of Saint Irene, dating back to 1639, which houses nine busts of saints containing their relics, with a statue of Saint Irene above, topped by Lecce's civic coat of arms; and the altar of the Holy Family, created in 1672. The apse hosts the main altar, refurbished in 1753, with a painting depicting The Transport of the Holy Ark, a masterpiece by Oronzo Tiso.
On the right side of the transept, three more altars can be found: the altar of the Guardian Angel from 1700; the altar dedicated to Saint Cajetan of Thiene, commissioned in 1651 by the Archbishop of Otranto, Gaetano Cassa, featuring an oil painting of the Theatine order’s founder by Filippo Maria Galletti; and the altar of Saint Andrew Avellino, showcasing Rococo style. The chapels on the right side host altars dedicated to Saint Charles Borromeo, the Archangel Michael, built by Cesare Penna in 1642, and the Souls in Purgatory, adorned with a recent painting by Luigi Scorrano.
The sacristy of Sant’Irene houses additional treasures, including various paintings, such as the one depicting the Madonna della Libera. These artworks, along with the church’s architectural features, provide a glimpse into the rich artistic and spiritual heritage of Lecce.
In conclusion, Sant’Irene is not just a church; it is a living monument to Lecce’s Baroque splendor and religious devotion. Its history, architecture, and art make it a captivating destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. As you wander through its hallowed halls, you can almost hear the echoes of centuries past, inviting you to explore and appreciate the enduring legacy of this remarkable church.
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