Basilica della Madonna della Neve, Minor basilica in Copertino, Italy.
The Basilica della Madonna della Neve is a Romanesque building in Copertino with medieval features in its outer design. Its facade displays hanging arches from the thirteenth century that give the structure its distinctive medieval appearance.
A Norman count founded this church at the end of the eleventh century as a religious place for the growing community. Only in modern times, in the early twenty-first century, did the building receive official church recognition as a basilica.
The name comes from devotion to Mary in the snow, a veneration common across southern Italy. Inside, visitors see religious artworks that reflect how the local community expressed its faith over centuries.
The building is usually open to visitors, but guests should coordinate their visits with religious services held regularly throughout the week. It is best to wear respectful clothing and be mindful of its active use as a place of worship.
A tall bell tower stands beside the church and is divided into two separate levels. This construction, completed in the late sixteenth century, shows different architectural styles in each section.
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