Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary, church building in Poggio Mirteto, Italy
The Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary is a Baroque church in Poggio Mirteto featuring three wide naves with high vaulted ceilings decorated in ornate stucco. Inside are numerous paintings and altarpieces, including the main altar painting of the Assumption by Giovanni Baglione from 1613, along with side chapels displaying various religious artworks and wooden furnishings from the 1600s.
The community's first church was built in the 13th century near the town walls as a simple structure, later replaced in the late 1400s by the Church of the Holy Trinity inside the walls. Construction of the present cathedral began in 1641 and was completed by 1684; it became a cathedral in 1841 when Poggio Mirteto became a diocesan seat.
The cathedral serves as the community's gathering place for religious celebrations and processions, especially on feast days honoring Mary. The side chapels display paintings and statues depicting saints and biblical stories that reflect how faith has been expressed locally over many generations.
The cathedral is open to visitors during the day to admire the artworks and architecture, as well as for worshippers coming to pray. The quiet surroundings with small cafes and shops nearby allow visitors to view the historic details at ease and take a break in the neighboring streets.
A ceiling painting created in 1931 depicts Saint Gaetano of Thiene holding back soldiers during the 1527 sack of Rome, representing a dramatic moment in this saint's local devotion. The 1847 pipe organ was carefully restored in the early 2000s and is still played during concerts and special services.
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