Immacolata

In the heart of Modugno, Italy, nestled on Via X Marzo, stands the historic and picturesque Immacolata, locally known as Chiesa dell'Immacolata. This charming church, with its rich history and serene surroundings, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the region.

The History of Immacolata

The story of Immacolata begins in the late 16th century when Nicola de Russis, through his will, expressed a desire to dedicate his wealth to the construction of a convent for the Capuchin Friars, also known as the Friars Minor Capuchin of the Seraphic Order of Saint Francis of Assisi. His last heir, Antonia Miletto, alongside the University of Modugno, honored his wishes, leading to the establishment of the convent and the church between 1589 and 1591.

By 1591, the monastery housed around ten friars. As the years passed, the structure underwent several transformations, including an expansion in 1629 and a significant restoration in 1765. However, during the rule of Joachim Murat, the convent was abolished, and in 1866, it was occupied by Italian-Prussian troops during the war against Austria. The friars found refuge with Michele Loiacono in Santa Maria della Grotta.

In 1869, the property was transferred to the municipality of Modugno, which divided it between the charitable works of Carmine and Purgatory. The church itself saw various proposals for its use, including one from Father Vito Maria da Rutigliano, who wished to continue the Franciscan tradition, and another from a group of twelve Modugnesi who aimed to establish a confraternity dedicated to the Immaculate Conception. Unfortunately, both requests were denied.

In 1878, the church became the seat of the Confraternity of the Nativity, and in 1894, it returned to the charitable work of Purgatory, which established an orphanage managed by the Stigmatine Sisters. Thanks to the efforts of Don Alberto Romita, the church underwent restoration in 1907. On April 26, 1969, the municipality of Modugno ceded the church to the Archdiocese of Bari, which, under Archbishop Anastasio Alberto Ballestrero, established it as a parish in 1974. The first parish priest, Don Rocco Di Ciaula, took possession on October 20, 1974. The following year, the Stigmatine Sisters vacated the former convent, which was then repurposed for educational use.

The Well of Via de' Cappuccini

The Immacolata and the Capuchin convent are situated in a district outside the city walls known as La Fontana, where a public well was constructed after the plague of 1522. This well, dug into the rock to a depth of approximately 66 meters, was the only source of spring water in the area until the mid-18th century. Despite its distance from the town center, it served as a vital water reserve during periods of drought, drawing directly from an aquifer.

The well was closed in 1960 during road expansion works. The water from this well, rich in minerals like sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, calcium carbonate, and magnesium sulfate, was reputed to have diuretic and slightly laxative properties, making it a popular remedy for those suffering from kidney stones.

Exploring Immacolata

The exterior of the Immacolata is a testament to its historical roots. The facade, adorned with limestone ashlar, features a rectangular portal topped with a lunette containing bas-reliefs of a chalice, host, and angels. Above the portal, the Capuchin emblem and a large Baroque-style window add to the church's charm. To the left, a small rectangular bell tower rises, hinting at the church's former grandeur.

The right side of the church, corresponding to the lateral nave with chapels, reveals traces of a previous entrance, now marked by a window with an inscription dating back to 1589. This side also features the symbol of Saint Bernardino of Siena, the monogram IHS within a radiant sun.

The former convent, adjacent to the church, is quadrangular in shape. Its entrance, hidden by an exterior courtyard, leads to an antechamber for the porticoed cloister, paved with stone and featuring six round arches that house an ancient well. From the cloister, a corridor leads to rooms once used as the kitchen and refectory. The upper floor contains 26 small barrel-vaulted cells for the friars, along with other rooms overlooking the exterior and the inner courtyard. The only room with a balcony was the Capuchin library. During the Christmas season, the courtyard garden hosts a living nativity scene, adding to the church's festive charm.

Interior of Immacolata

The interior of the Immacolata, dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, follows the typical Franciscan layout: a single nave flanked by a series of interconnecting chapels on one side. The main nave, measuring 13.5 meters in length and 6 meters in width, is complemented by an adjacent nave on the left, 4.9 meters wide, consisting of three interconnected chapels.

On the right side, four large round arches, originally home to side altars, now display paintings. These arches are adorned with angelic heads, adding a touch of celestial beauty. The barrel-vaulted ceiling of the main nave is decorated with paintings, the most prominent depicting Saint Francis of Assisi kneeling before the Crucifix. The walls and ceilings are adorned with floral decorations and faux polychrome marble, the result of the 1909 restoration commissioned by Archpriest Romita. The flooring also dates back to the early 20th century.

The three side chapels are dedicated to Saint Paschal Baylon, the Sacred Heart, and Saint Anthony. The main altar, modified in 1858, is made of white marble and features four twisted cement columns that replaced the original wooden ones in 1964. This altar houses a painted wooden statue of the Immaculate Conception, likely the work of Neapolitan artist Francesco Verzella, and four niches containing statues of Franciscan saints attributed to Francesco Picano. To the left of the main altar was the old choir, now serving as the sacristy. This area was once separated by a grate, allowing the faithful to listen to the monks' Office. From this room, one can access the octagonal-shaped old sacristy, now used as a parish office.

In conclusion, the Immacolata in Modugno is not just a church; it is a living testament to centuries of faith, history, and community. Its walls tell stories of devotion, resilience, and transformation, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the rich cultural tapestry of this Italian town.