Chiesa di Santa Croce, Catholic church in Altamura, Italy.
The Chiesa di Santa Croce is a Catholic church located in Altamura, Puglia, situated along the street that bears its name. Its interior features architectural elements from multiple periods due to various renovations made over the centuries.
The first written record dates to April 12, 1466, though Giovanni Antonio Orsini del Balzo likely built it earlier. The 19th century brought major renovations that significantly altered much of its original architectural structure.
The church displays 15th-century frescoes showing Emperor Heraclius and his wife Elena, reflecting the religious art of that time. These paintings show how important sacred imagery was to the community back then.
The church is located on a street in the city center and can be easily reached on foot when walking through Altamura's old town. Morning visits are recommended since natural light highlights the frescoes and interior details more clearly.
In the 17th century, the church founded the Santa Croce Conservatory, which provided education and shelter to hundreds of underprivileged women. This facility became an important part of community life and shows how the institution cared for vulnerable people.
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