San Domenico Maggiore

San Domenico Maggiore, known locally as Chiesa di San Domenico Maggiore, is a captivating blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture nestled in the heart of Taranto's old town. This historic church, completed around 1360, stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of history that has shaped this Italian city over the centuries.

The History of San Domenico Maggiore

Originally built on the remnants of a Greek temple from the classical era, the site later became home to a Benedictine abbey in the 11th century. By the 14th century, the Dominicans took possession, and the church was eventually completed, retaining the name San Pietro Imperiale. An inscription in Latin on the entrance portal's coat of arms marks its completion, a nod to the Taurisano family whose members were interred in the cathedral.

Throughout its history, San Domenico Maggiore has been a focal point for religious and community life. The Dominicans established themselves here in the early 1300s, and by the 16th and 17th centuries, several confraternities had formed, each contributing their own altars to the church. These include the Royal Archconfraternity of Maria Santissima del Rosario, the Confraternity of the Holy Name of Jesus, and the Confraternity of Saint Dominic in Soriano.

Exploring San Domenico Maggiore

As you approach the church, you’re greeted by a striking Baroque staircase, added in the late 18th century. This grand entrance invites visitors to ascend and explore the rich architectural and spiritual heritage within. The façade, with its intricate rose window, is a beautiful introduction to the treasures inside.

The Chapels of the Left Nave

The left nave hosts a series of chapels, each with its own unique charm. The first chapel, dedicated to the Madonna del Rosario, features a painting of the Virgin surrounded by depictions of the fifteen mysteries of the Rosary. This work, attributed to the school of Francesco Solimena, is complemented by a marble altar crafted by the Ghetti brothers.

The second chapel honors Saint Vincent Ferrer with a large, evocative painting of the saint. The third chapel, belonging to the Confraternity of the Holy Name of Jesus, houses a baroque wooden altar adorned with demonic figures symbolizing the triumph over evil. Here, you’ll find the statue of the Infant Jesus, a focal point of Epiphany processions.

The final chapel is dedicated to the Madonna Addolorata, featuring a baroque altar by Ambrogio Martinelli and a statue of the Virgin from the late 17th century, revered during Holy Week and in September festivities.

The Abside and Ceiling

The abside is the resting place of Dominican Tommaso de Sarria, archbishop of Taranto. Above, the wooden ceiling, once adorned with paintings of Saint Dominic’s triumph, collapsed in 1964, leaving behind a simpler wooden truss structure.

The Convent and Archaeology

The adjoining convent, built in the 14th century, has served various purposes over the years, including military functions in the 19th century. Its cloister, with its 18th-century features, offers a serene space for reflection, adorned with religious frescoes.

Archaeological excavations have revealed layers of history beneath the church, from Neolithic settlements to Mycenaean influences. The site was once a bustling Spartan colony, and remnants of a Greek temple still whisper stories of ancient rituals.

Fragments of the Past

Roman history is also etched into the fabric of San Domenico Maggiore, with fragments of inscriptions embedded in the church’s façade. These remnants of Cormus and Cnaeus Pompeius offer glimpses into the Roman era, woven into the medieval reconstruction of the church.

San Domenico Maggiore is more than just a church; it is a living chronicle of Taranto’s diverse cultural and spiritual journey. Each stone, each chapel, and each piece of art tells a story of devotion, resilience, and transformation. As you wander through its halls, you are not just witnessing history; you are becoming a part of it, enveloped in the timeless beauty of this magnificent Italian treasure.