San Francesco della Scarpa, Baroque Catholic church in Sulmona, Italy.
San Francesco della Scarpa is a baroque church in Sulmona with a single nave covered by barrel vaults and lined with side chapels. The square presbytery is topped by a dome that sits directly on the walls without a drum or lantern separating them.
The church was founded in 1290 by King Charles II of Naples as a larger structure. Severe earthquakes in 1456 and 1706 caused significant damage, leading to reconstruction and structural reinforcement that reduced its original size.
The church displays a 14th-century fresco at its entrance showing the Madonna and Child flanked by Saint Francis and Mary Magdalene. This sacred image remains a focal point for visitors and reflects the spiritual figures most honored within these walls.
The interior is generally accessible on most days, though the courtyard opens only for special occasions. It is helpful to check current opening times in advance and remember that standard respectful behavior applies in this sacred space.
A surviving buttress from 1456 still stands at the site, topped with three bells and a statue of Saint Francis marking the church's response to earthquake damage. This structural element serves as a visible reminder of how the building was reinforced over time.
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