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Church of St Mary of the Assumption in Maenza: a papal Cathedral and its hidden treasures
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo is located in the heart of Maenza, next to the Baronial Castle. It is the Cathedral of Maenza, a majestic neoclassical building commissioned by a Pope. Its solemn façade conceals unexpected treasures, among them an ancient fresco linking the Virgin Mary to a typical local product: Our Lady of the Cherries.
A project commissioned by a Pope
The building we see today is a reconstruction dating from 1846, later redesigned at the end of the 19th century at the behest of Pope Leo XIII. His family coat of arms, that of the Pecci, stands prominently on the pediment. The interior features three naves, dominated by a large dome and, on the back wall, the Assumption of Mary painted by Vincenzo Pasqualoni in 1874. It is a truly grand space.
Hidden treasures and details worth noticing
Artworks include the "Madonna delle cerase" (Our Lady of the Cherries), a detached 15th-century fresco by an unknown author, rediscovered only in 1975. But there are also the large paintings by Giovanni Cingolani: in the one depicting St Rocco, the artist has included on the left a glimpse of Maenza as it appeared in the early 20th century. Also worthy of attention is the 16th-century stone tabernacle — a small sculpted masterpiece.
For information on opening hours and visits, it is advisable to consult the website of the Pro Loco of Maenza or contact the parish directly, as hours may vary.
