Santa Maria Assunta, Settignano, church in Settignano, Italy
Santa Maria Assunta is a church in Settignano, a small village near Florence, and is defined by its three-section structure with a wider central nave. The interior features frescoes by Pier Dandini in the apse, a baptismal font from 1745 on one side, and remarkable artworks by Renaissance artists such as Andrea della Robbia and Pietro Tacca that shape its architectural heritage.
The first church dates to the 12th century but was fundamentally rebuilt in 1518 under Pope Leo X of the Medici family and elevated to parish status. The current three-section structure was completed in 1595, with work carried out by local craftsmen such as Francesco di Guido di Vieri and Simone Mosca, who came from the renowned stonemasons village.
The church served as the spiritual center of Settignano for centuries and reflects the importance of the Assumption of Mary for the local community. On the feast day of the Assumption on August 15, people gather in the piazza and inside the church for celebrations that keep this connection between faith and community alive today.
The church sits in a quiet part of Settignano with old houses and narrow streets that are easy to explore on foot. Visitors should take time to view the frescoes, sculptures, and baptismal font, and note that the silence inside encourages calm reflection.
A crucifix made of painted papier-mâché by Pietro Tacca was restored and placed behind the altar, possibly once used in processions during Holy Week. Two small terracotta angels by Andrea della Robbia complete this rare artwork dating from the 1600s.
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