Santa Maria Nuova, Cortona
Discover the Miraculous Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona
Nestled just outside the walls of the charming town of Cortona in Tuscany, Italy, lies the enchanting church of Santa Maria Nuova. This Roman Catholic place of worship holds a significant historical and religious importance, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the Provincia di Arezzo.
A Miraculous Image and a New Church
The story of Santa Maria Nuova begins in the early 16th century when local farmers witnessed a miraculous sight. As they returned home along the road from the Celle Convent to Porta Colonia, they saw a figure of a woman floating in the air, accompanied by four lit candles. The figure stopped near a small shrine that housed a frescoed tabernacle of the Madonna and Child, known as the "Madonna dell'Ellera" due to the ivy that covered the shrine.
The tabernacle quickly became a focal point of popular devotion, believed to bestow blessings and perform miracles. In 1550, the Municipality of Cortona approved the construction of a grand new church to house the revered image. The church was named Santa Maria Nuova, distinguishing it from other churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary in the area, such as the Madonna del Calcinaio.
Architectural Marvels
The construction of Santa Maria Nuova began in 1550 under the supervision of architect Giovanni Battista Sensi, also known as Cristofanello. After Sensi's untimely death, renowned architect Giorgio Vasari took over the project. The church's design features a square ground plan and a magnificent dome with a lantern, completed in 1600. The dome, a prominent feature of the church, adds to its architectural splendor.
Inside the church, visitors will be captivated by the central plan layout, which follows a Greek cross inscribed within a square. The main altar, sculpted by Mariotto Radi in 1595, houses the miraculous image of the Madonna dell'Ellera. The altar is made of beautiful sandstone and includes a small chamber with an internal staircase leading to the top. The choir, also known as the Venuti Chapel, features 16th-century stalls and a grand lectern adorned with a lion figure.
Historical Significance and Restoration
Santa Maria Nuova was consecrated as a collegiate church on May 1, 1610. In 1735, Pope Clement XII elevated it to the status of "insigne." However, during the Leopoldine suppressions in 1786, the church was downgraded to a parish. It regained its prioria title in 1805, bestowed by Bishop Filippo Ganucci of Cortona.
Over the years, the church has undergone significant restoration work. In 1840, extensive renovations were carried out to preserve its architectural and historical significance. In 2006, an ancient inscription was discovered near Porta Colonia, indicating the original location of the Madonna dell'Ellera tabernacle.
When to Visit
Santa Maria Nuova is open to visitors throughout the year, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in its rich history and spiritual ambiance. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a pilgrim seeking solace, a visit to this remarkable church is sure to leave a lasting impression.
So, when planning your trip to Provincia di Arezzo, make sure to include a visit to Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona. Experience the awe-inspiring architecture, witness the miraculous image, and delve into the fascinating history of this sacred place.
