This content was automatically translated. View the original text.
The Church of Archangel St Michael in Caprarola: the Romanesque Building Rebuilt After the Earthquake
The Church of San Michele Arcangelo in Caprarola dates from the 12th century, but what we can see today is the result of a total reconstruction that took place after the earthquake of 1695. Of the original Romanesque building, only the bell tower in local stone remains, with twin-light windows and hanging arches. The rest was rebuilt in Baroque style, maintaining the three-nave layout but modifying the vaults, altars and decorations.
The Baroque Interior
Inside the church is a 15th-century wooden crucifix and some 17th-century paintings attributed to the Roman school. The high altar is made from polychrome marbles, typical of the post-Tridentine taste. The lateral naves house chapels dedicated to local saints, with plaster statues and stucco work dating from 19th-century restorations.
The Renaissance Portal
The entrance portal, in peperino stone, was added in the 16th century during works promoted by the Farnese family. The date 1569 is carved on the lintel, together with the family coat of arms. It is the only Renaissance element of the building, set into an otherwise sober façade devoid of decorations.
Location
The church is in the old town centre of Caprarola, in Piazza San Michele.
