Santa Maria del Soccorso, Baroque church in Modica, Italy
Santa Maria del Soccorso is a Baroque church in Modica featuring an elliptical plan built in white stone with finely worked details. The building contains several side chapels and a richly decorated interior that reflects its architectural period.
The church was rebuilt in the 18th century under architect Rosario Gagliardi, who gave it its present Baroque form. This transformation was part of Modica's reconstruction following a major earthquake that devastated the region earlier that century.
The church is dedicated to the veneration of the Virgin Mary, who holds a central place in local religious life. The faithful gather here especially on feast days to participate in this devotion.
Visitors can enter during regular hours when the church is open to the public for both tourists and worshippers. Dress modestly and be prepared to move quietly if services are taking place, as the space remains an active place of worship.
The main altarpiece depicts the Virgin Mary wielding a club against a demon, a rare and powerful image that stands out in religious art. This unusual representation, known as Our Lady with the Club, is found in few churches and makes this altar particularly striking.
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