Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata (Church of the Most Holy Annunciation)

Church in Salerno

Chiesa Annunziata Salerno
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Jack56

Graced by a magnificent bell tower and crowned with a resplendent majolica dome, the Church of the Most Holy Annunciation stands on the site of the ancient Portacatena, a vital city entrance. Located at the end of via Portacatena, it forms one vertex of the historical Salerno triangle, along with Arechi Castle and Porta Nova, marking the geographical center of the city’s rich heritage.

The church’s origins trace back to significant donations from Queen Margherita of Durazzo in 1404 and 1412. Over its history, the church has undergone various reconstructions due to natural calamities. Extensively renovated in the mid-19th century, it faced a major setback during the 1954 flood when it was engulfed by mud and debris. However, resilient restoration over three years adorned the church with marble, stucco, and decorative elements in the vaults and lateral chapels.

With its longitudinal plan and a presbytery beneath a striking dome, the church exudes a pronounced eighteenth-century aesthetic. Inside, the influence of renowned Neapolitan artists is evident. Filippo and Giovanni Ragozzino, along with Matteo Bottigliero, crafted the splendid Baroque main altar at the terminus of the single nave, adorned with polychrome decorations. Notable features include the meticulously crafted wooden entrance door of the sacristy, made in 1712 by master shipwright Saviotto, and the neo-Gothic wooden organ from 1880, positioned on the counter-façade.

A recent addition to the church’s allure is the breathtaking majolica embellishment on its dome, a testament to ongoing efforts to enhance this architectural gem.

The Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata (Church of the Most Holy Annunciation) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Salerno!

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Visiting Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata (Church of the Most Holy Annunciation)

Address: Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata, Via Portacatena, Salerno, SA, Italy
Duration: 15 minutes
Official Website

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