Santissima Annunziata, Catholic church in the historic district of Viareggio, Italy
The Santissima Annunziata is a church in Viareggio's historic center with a rebuilt bell tower whose bells were cast by the Ottolina foundry in Bergamo. The building features a nave with side aisles and displays the typical elements of an early modern parish church.
The church was built between 1559 and 1560 under commissioner Girolamo Busdraghi's oversight and was originally dedicated to Saint Peter. Over time it acquired its current name and was declared the city's patron saint in 1943.
The church is named after the Annunciation of Mary and has long served as a gathering place for religious celebrations and community events in Viareggio. The annual feast day draws residents and visitors who come to mark their connection to the city.
The best time to visit falls during the Annunciation feast in August, when the Mass is celebrated with ceremony and the church fills with worshippers. The building stands in an accessible location in downtown Viareggio, where an annual market fair also takes place.
Since 1755 a traditional market called the Fiera dei Ciottorini has been held at this location, drawing people from across the region year after year. This long tradition links the church's religious role with the everyday life of the city.
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