Santa Croce, Catholic church in Oltretorrente district, Parma, Italy.
Santa Croce is a church in Parma that blends Romanesque and Baroque architectural elements, featuring a tall nave, presbytery, and dome. Its structure shapes the Via Emilia with vertical proportions and layered facade details that create depth and visual interest.
The church was originally consecrated in 1222 and underwent its most significant transformation between 1635 and 1666 under the direction of the Saint Joseph confraternity. This renovation campaign introduced the Baroque artworks that define the interior today.
The name Santa Croce refers to the veneration of the Holy Cross and Christ's Passion throughout the church. The interior is marked by 17th-century frescoes that narrate biblical stories and give the space its spiritual character.
The church maintains regular opening hours for religious services and visits, located directly on Via Emilia in the Oltretorrente district. Access may be limited during Mass times, so planning your visit accordingly is helpful.
The altar features wooden polychrome statues of the Holy Family carved by the artist Angelo Fontana in the 17th century. Flanking these figures are sculptures of Saints Apollonia and Lucia, which reinforce the devotional focus of the space.
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