Chiesa di Santa Maria di Centurelli, Renaissance church in Caporciano, Italy.
Chiesa di Santa Maria di Centurelli is a Renaissance church in Caporciano with classical architectural features including a Latin cross floor plan and three tall, slender lancet windows. The interior is illuminated by these narrow windows, displaying the ordered simplicity typical of Renaissance design.
Construction of the current church began in 1502 and was completed in 1561, replacing an earlier medieval building from the year 1000. This transition from medieval to Renaissance structure marks a significant shift in the architectural history of the site.
The church served as a gathering point for shepherds traveling along the traditional migration routes, reflecting how religious buildings were woven into daily pastoral life. The site shows the connection between spiritual spaces and the rhythms of regional communities.
The church is accessible from Strada Statale 17 and is managed by the Caporciano municipality. The rural location means visitors should plan their visit carefully, as the site is not served by regular public transport.
The side portal mirrors the design of the main entrance, showing uncommon symmetry for a small rural church. A dedicated porch sheltered shepherds as they passed through on their long seasonal journeys.
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