Santa Maria della Catena, Neoclassical church in Borgo Santa Lucia, Naples, Italy
Santa Maria della Catena is a Neoclassical church in Borgo Santa Lucia built with clean lines and balanced proportions. Its interior holds tombs of notable figures and was decorated in the 17th century with embellishments by skilled artisans.
The church was founded in 1576 by residents and later completely rebuilt in the 17th century under architect Carmelo Passero. This transformation reflected the artistic trends of the era and the growing importance of the neighborhood in the city.
The church is connected to the Virgin Mary and a chain through local lore about protection and guidance at sea. Visitors can still sense today the deep bond between this sanctuary and the seafaring community in its stone walls.
The church sits near the port and is easily reached on foot from the city center. It functions as a rectory and may have limited access during religious ceremonies.
Until recent decades, residents celebrated the Feast of the Chain in September with a boat festival on the beach. This celebration with music and folk customs is no longer observed, but memories of it persist in local memory.
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