Santa Maria Maggiore, officially known as Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore, stands majestically in the historic heart of Vasto, Italy. This grand church, often regarded as the mother of all churches in Vasto's old town, has a storied past and architectural splendor that beckons visitors from near and far. Declared a national monument in 1902, Santa Maria Maggiore is more than just a place of worship; it's a testament to centuries of history, resilience, and artistic achievement.
The history of Santa Maria Maggiore is deeply intertwined with the very fabric of Vasto. The earliest records of the church date back to 1195, when it was mentioned in a diploma issued by Emperor Henry VI of Sicily. This document not only confirms the existence of the ecclesia Sacte Marie in Guastoaymonis but also sheds light on the ecclesiastical hierarchy of the time, revealing a longstanding rivalry between Santa Maria and the church of San Pietro.
Over the centuries, Santa Maria Maggiore has withstood numerous adversities. In 1566, a Turkish attack inflicted significant damage, and in 1645, a devastating fire further ravaged the church. However, the indomitable spirit of the community saw the church undergo a comprehensive restoration between 1783 and 1785. Originally a single-nave structure, it was transformed into a three-nave church, adorned with subsequent embellishments in the 19th century.
Approaching Santa Maria Maggiore, one is immediately struck by its imposing Latin cross layout, crowned with an 18th-century masonry covering. Unlike many traditional churches, it lacks an apse, instead featuring a single window topped by a broad but low dome with geometric forms. The facade, visible from Piazza Duomo, is relatively modest, flanked by the towering campanile.
The facade itself is a fine example of late Baroque architecture, characterized by its rounded architrave and rusticated portal. On the church's side, accessible from the main thoroughfare, one can observe medieval anthropomorphic figures carved in white stone, including a depiction of a farmer and several crosses.
The campanile of Santa Maria Maggiore is an architectural marvel in its own right. This towering structure, the tallest in Vasto, is visible from miles around. The quadrangular tower rests on a medieval base adorned with pointed arches. As the tower ascends, it transitions into a simpler Baroque style, culminating in the belfry, which houses a large bell, a mezzana, a mezza-terza, and two smaller bells. The roof is unadorned, maintaining the tower's austere elegance.
The interior of Santa Maria Maggiore is a breathtaking blend of Baroque and Neoclassical styles. The three-nave layout is punctuated by pillars and niches housing statues of prophets. The whitewashed columns separating the naves exude a fluid and delicate grace. The ceilings are adorned with frescoes, and the entrance is marked by columns supporting the choir loft.
The medieval crypt, accessible via a double spiral staircase, is a serene and sacred space. Here, the relics of Saint Caesarius are enshrined, along with an ampoule containing the blood of Don Cesare Michelangelo d'Avalos. The church also houses the precious relic of the Sacred Thorn from the crown of Jesus, a gift from the D'Avalos family.
Santa Maria Maggiore is home to an array of artistic masterpieces. The main nave features Corinthian columns and niches containing statues of the Twelve Apostles and four prophets. The right nave boasts chapels dedicated to Saint Anne, the Sacred Thorn, and Saint Anthony Abbot, among others. The left nave includes chapels dedicated to Saint Mary, Saint Caesarius, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, and more.
Among the notable artworks are the Ecce Homo from the school of Titian, the Mystical Marriage of Saint Catherine attributed to Paolo Veronese, and Francesco Solimena's Pentecost and Presentation of the Camauro to Celestine V from 1727. The church also serves as the final resting place for several illustrious citizens of Vasto, including members of the D'Avalos family and the madrigalist Bernardino Lupacchino dal Vasto.
In conclusion, Santa Maria Maggiore is not just a church; it's a living museum of history, art, and faith. Its walls echo with the stories of the past, its architecture stands as a testament to human resilience and creativity, and its sacred relics and artworks offer a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Vasto. A visit to Santa Maria Maggiore is a journey through time, a celebration of artistic achievement, and a profound spiritual experience.
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