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The Church of St Joseph in Sermoneta: a local master’s art in the heart of the town
In the Lepini district of Sermoneta stands the Church of San Giuseppe, dedicated to the town's patron saint. With an 18th-century façade, completed in 1733 thanks to donations from the townspeople, the 16th-century building houses a cycle of frescoes by Girolamo Siciolante, a painter born right here. His Cappella Caetani is the true artistic heart of the church.
Siciolante's signature
Bonifacio Caetani commissioned the frescoes around 1550 from the most celebrated local artist, Girolamo Siciolante. In the second chapel on the right, the family’s coat of arms, held up by angels, announces his involvement. The scenes, depicting episodes from Genesis and the life of Christ, reveal a confident hand, typical of Roman Mannerism. This is a true hidden treasure.
Beyond the Cappella Caetani
But there is more. The single nave, covered by cross vaults, is flanked by other chapels. The first on the left, known as the Cappella Mazzancollo, houses paintings by an unknown early 17th-century artist. A recent restoration, completed in 2011, has consolidated the structure and restored brilliance to the colours of the interiors, particularly the stuccos and paintings.
The church has no fixed or regular opening hours. It is advisable to check times by contacting the local tourist office or the Municipality of Sermoneta.
