Chiesa Santa Maria Del Suffragio in Monopoli

Chiesa Santa Maria Del Suffragio in Monopoli, also known as Chiesa di Santa Maria del Suffragio, is an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Monopoli, a picturesque town in the province of Bari, Italy. This baroque-style church, often referred to as the Church of Purgatory (Chiesa del Purgatorio), is not just a place of worship but a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. With its intriguing themes of mortality and afterlife, it offers a unique and captivating experience for visitors.

The Historical Significance

The origins of Chiesa Santa Maria Del Suffragio are steeped in a poignant history. The church was constructed at the behest of the canons of the Monopoli Cathedral following the tragic collapse of the cathedral’s bell tower, which devastated the surrounding houses and claimed numerous lives. The land where the ruins lay was acquired by the Confraternity of Santa Maria del Suffragio, who sought to build a church in memory of the deceased. The construction is believed to have commenced in 1687, with the first stone laid on November 7th in the presence of the bishop. The church was completed by 1700, although some sources suggest that the construction might have started in 1700, with the solemn blessing by Vicar General Nicolò Romanelli.

Architectural Marvel

The Chiesa Santa Maria Del Suffragio is a quintessential example of baroque architecture, featuring a cruciform plan with a single central nave crowned by a dome at the intersection with the transept. The right side of the nave houses service rooms, while the left side boasts a chapel built in the late 18th century, a bell tower, and a sacristy above a small underground cemetery accessible via an external staircase from the garden. The sacristy is flanked by additional rooms and a house, with the apse of the main altar surrounded by residential buildings.

The church's façade is a striking composition divided horizontally by a cornice and vertically into three sections. The central section is punctuated by four Tuscan order pilasters resting on a pedestal. The main portal, accessible via a set of steps, is adorned with a variety of death-related symbols and is surmounted by a delicate inscription and an entablature supporting a broken pediment. Nestled between the pediment’s slopes is a niche housing the statue of the Archangel Gabriel, the protector of entrances. Flanking the pilasters are niches with cherubs, and above the cornice, a series of triglyphs and metopes alternate, the latter sculpted with motifs of skulls and crossed bones. The upper part of the façade features a bay with a keystone topped by an oculus window.

The Fascinating Interior

Stepping inside Chiesa Santa Maria Del Suffragio, visitors are greeted by an interior that houses five altars, including the main altar, which is a classic example of baroque style, crafted from pietra leccese (Lecce stone). The central painting of Santa Maria del Suffragio, brought from Naples in 1717 and attributed to the painter Paolo de Matteis, is encased in a gilded frame and flanked by Solomonic columns with Corinthian capitals. The entire liturgical furniture is adorned with naturalistic and stylized vegetal decorations, cherubs, friezes, crowns, and statuettes of saints. The strategic lighting on either side of the main altar accentuates the stone’s whiteness, creating a striking contrast with the gilded elements.

One of the church's most intriguing features is the display of nine mummies, visible through a window that allows a glimpse into the chapel from the outside. These mummies, preserved in glass cases against the wall, include the remains of seven men, one woman, and a small child with glass eyes, all dressed in black garments adorned with red tongues of fire symbolizing purifying flames. These mummies, dating from 1770 to 1830, are members of the same confraternity, and their display aligns with the post-Tridentine theological revival that redefined representations of death and purgatory.

The Underground Cemetery

Another fascinating aspect of Chiesa Santa Maria Del Suffragio is its small underground cemetery, which can be accessed from the garden via an external staircase. This subterranean space adds an element of mystery and solemnity to the church, further emphasizing its themes of mortality and the afterlife.

In conclusion, Chiesa Santa Maria Del Suffragio in Monopoli is not just a church; it is a journey through history, art, and theology. Its baroque architecture, rich historical background, and unique displays of mortality make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Monopoli. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, this church offers a profound and unforgettable experience.