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Church of St Mary of the Assumption in Bassano Romano: the Giustiniani Baroque and the head of a saint
In Bassano Romano, in the heart of the Viterbo Tuscia, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta is inextricably linked to Palazzo Giustiniani. Built at the behest of this noble family, this Baroque parish church is not only the spiritual centre of the town, it also houses within its walls a relic of enormous local importance: the head of San Gratilian, patron saint of the town.
The mark of the Giustiniani
Construction, carried out on the site of a pre-existing church, began in 1703, and was completed in 1712. The façade in local stone is immediately recognisable for the clock and the family coat of arms. A detail that often goes unnoticed is the pair of small twin bell towers which, together with the statue of the Virgin, complete the upper part of the structure. It is an impressive design.
Sacred art and the patron's relic
The single-nave interior houses remarkable works. Above the main altar is the large painting "Assumption of the Virgin", which gives the church its name. Another painting of note is a late 18th-century "Mater Dolorosa", adorned with a silver crown. But the true devotional heart of the place remains the reliquary case containing the head of San Gratilian, enclosed within a precious bust reliquary.
The church is located in Piazza Umberto I, serves as the town's parish church, and holds regular services. Opening hours may vary, so it is advisable to check directly with the parish.
