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The Church of Our Lady of Peace in Ronciglione: The Fresco That Sealed Peace
At the end of Viale Garibaldi in Ronciglione stands the Church of Santa Maria della Pace. Its name is no coincidence, it came from an ancient peace treaty with the neighbouring town of Sutri. Commissioned by Cardinal Alessandro Farnese the Younger in 1551, the church still houses the symbol of that historic agreement today: a precious 15th-century fresco depicting the concept of peace, the true heart of the place.
A Design by Vignola
The original design is attributed to Vignola, the trusted architect of the Farnese family. The Cardinal commissioned it for the Augustinian friars, but the structure we see today is larger. It underwent a significant expansion during the 17th century. The bell tower, on the other hand, is a modern addition, dating from 1967, and its design was conceived to blend harmoniously with the 16th-century forms.
The Treasure of the Vanished Collegiate Church
The fresco depicting the Madonna and Child comes from a votive shrine built specifically to consecrate the peace. But it is not the only piece to have "migrated" here. In the sacristy is a white marble tabernacle, coming from the ancient Collegiate Church of Sant'Andrea, now in ruins — whose parish was transferred to this church in 1904.
The church serves as the community parish, and follows the schedule of religious services. Admission is free. Opposite the church is the War Memorial of 1922.
