Church of Santa Maria della Carità

The Church of Santa Maria della Carità is a Baroque building with an octagonal floor plan, distinguished by colorful marble decorations and Egyptian marble columns. The interior contains numerous artistic elements and medallion paintings depicting religious scenes.

The current building was constructed in 1640 following designs by architect Agostino Avanzo, replacing an earlier structure. It received its consecration in 1655.

The name refers to devotion to Mary and the church's role in caring for the poor in medieval times. Inside, visitors see paintings depicting religious scenes like the Virgin's Coronation and Death, which shaped spiritual life for the community.

The building stands at the intersection of Via dei Musei and Via Rosa in central Brescia and is easy to locate. A bronze statue of Madonna della Pace adorns the main facade and serves as a visual landmark.

Two Egyptian marble columns at the portal come from a Roman temple and were moved from the demolished early Christian basilica of San Pietro de Dom. These columns connect ancient history with the Baroque reconstruction.

Location: Brescia

Inception: 1640

Architectural style: Italian Baroque architecture

Address: Via Musei

GPS coordinates: 45.53979,10.22384

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:08