Among the alleys of Guglionesi there is a church that from the outside may appear simple but which in reality hides stories and beauties of inestimable value.
The origins of the church are shrouded in mystery, between hypotheses and fragmentary documentation. According to some scholars, the current building was rebuilt in the 13th century, after an earthquake in 1117 destroyed a pre-existing structure. The latter, in turn, could have been built on the remains of a 5th-century pagan temple dedicated to the goddess Venus or, according to other theories, of an early Christian church from the 6th century.
The imposing architecture develops on a solid stone base. The main façade, in regular ashlars, is characterized by five blind arches with capitals decorated with plant motifs. The portal, inserted in the larger central arch, is surmounted by a sculpture depicting a bull’s head, a symbol of strength and protection. Above the portal, perfectly aligned, there is an elegant rose window framed by white and grey ashlars that give a suggestive chromatic effect.
On the left side of the building there is a secondary entrance, highlighted by a round arch and a series of double hanging ogival arches, supported by small stone brackets.
Inside, the church is divided into three naves, divided by sturdy pillars with semi-columns and arches, mostly pointed, while in the area of the main altar we find round arches. A distinctive feature is the difference in level between the nave and the presbytery area: the latter rises several metres and is accessed via a scenic staircase of sixteen steps. This architectural choice dates back to the restoration of 1971-1973, when a crypt with cross vaults, dating back to between the 5th and 6th centuries, was brought to light.
The structure has a rectangular plan with exposed roofs: the central nave has a gable roof supported by wooden trusses, while the side naves are covered by sloping roofs. The stone floor preserves the authenticity of the time while the wall system, entirely in load-bearing stone, ensures solidity to the entire complex.
Over the centuries, the church has undergone numerous interventions: in the 18th century it was completely rebuilt in Baroque style, giving it a new artistic face without erasing the charm of its ancient origins.
Today the church represents a precious example of historical and architectural stratification so much so that it has been declared a national monument. A place where the past and the present dialogue in a suspended and fascinating atmosphere.