Santa Maria del Casale, Brindisi

Church in Brindisi

Public Domain / Roberto sernicola

St. Maria del Casale sits quietly on the outskirts of Brindisi, yet it holds a presence that feels both grand and intimate. Built in 1284 by Filippo I, Prince of Taranto, and his wife Caterina, it stands where St. Francis of Assisi once paused on his journey home from the Holy Land, making it one of the must-see places in Brindisi for travelers drawn to layered history. Its façade alone, a tapestry of white Carovigno stone and warm local tuff, creates a play of color and patterns that sets it apart from any other church in the region.

Stepping inside reveals a treasure of 14th-century frescoes, including the Last Judgement and the Last Supper, works attributed to Rinaldo da Taranto and fellow artists who transformed the walls into a vivid medieval narrative. The nearby cloister, added in the late 1500s, completes the complex with harmony and grace, making St. Maria del Casale often visited on walking tours of Brindisi by those seeking both art and tranquillity.

History and Significance of St. Maria del Casale
Things to See and Do in St. Maria del Casale
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting St. Maria del Casale
Where to Stay close to St. Maria del Casale
Is St. Maria del Casale Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting St. Maria del Casale
Nearby Attractions to St. Maria del Casale

History and Significance of St. Maria del Casale

St. Maria del Casale marks a delicate transition between Romanesque solidity and the more refined Gothic style that began emerging in southern Italy at the end of the 13th century. Its foundation in 1284 reflects the ambitions of Filippo I, Prince of Taranto, a member of the powerful Angevin dynasty. By building the church on the site of a humble chapel associated with St. Francis of Assisi, he anchored the structure in both political prominence and spiritual resonance.

Declared a national monument in 1875, the church has long been recognised as one of Brindisi’s architectural jewels. Its façade, with its intricate zigzag, herringbone, and chessboard patterns, stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of medieval stoneworkers who blended local materials into a cohesive visual masterpiece. Inside, the frescoes narrate biblical scenes with expressive detail and rich color, offering valuable insight into southern Italy’s medieval artistic schools.

The attached cloister, built in the late 1500s by Observant Minor monks, reflects the monastery’s later history and deepens the site’s cultural importance. Its elegant arcades and peaceful courtyard still evoke the monastic calm that defined life here for centuries.

Things to See and Do in St. Maria del Casale

Begin your visit by spending time with the façade, where the contrasting stones create rhythmic patterns that shift subtly with the light. The decorative design is unlike anything else in the region, rewarding close attention to its carved details and geometric arrangements. It’s particularly atmospheric in the late afternoon when the façade’s warm tones deepen.

Inside, the frescoes are the true highlight. Works such as the Last Judgement, the Feet Washing, and the Cross Tree unfold across the walls with vivid storytelling energy. Their preservation allows visitors to engage with medieval religious art in a surprisingly intimate way.

Don't miss the adjoining cloister, whose graceful arches frame a peaceful courtyard. It offers a gentle contrast to the visual intensity of the church interior and provides a lovely spot to pause before continuing your exploration of Brindisi.

How to Get There

St. Maria del Casale is located just outside Brindisi, a short drive from the city center and conveniently close to Brindisi Airport. The proximity to the airport makes it one of the easiest monuments to reach for visitors arriving by air. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Brindisi on Booking.com. If you are traveling by car, you’ll find parking available near the church. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Public transport options are limited, though taxis from central Brindisi or the waterfront are straightforward. There is no direct train link to the site. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

Practical Tips on Visiting St. Maria del Casale

Best time to visit St. Maria del Casale: Late afternoon for beautifully lit façade patterns.
Entrance fee in Euros: Generally free or under €5 depending on exhibitions or cultural events.
Opening hours: Usually morning and afternoon, but hours may vary; check locally before visiting.
Official website: Often listed through Brindisi’s cultural tourism portals.
How long to spend: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Accessibility: The entrance area is accessible, though some interior sections may have uneven flooring.
Facilities: Limited; restrooms may not always be available.
Photography tip: Capture the façade’s patterns when the sun is low for maximum contrast.
Guided tours: Sometimes offered through local cultural associations or city tours.
Nearby food options: Cafés and trattorias are found closer to central Brindisi, just a short drive away.

Where to Stay close to St. Maria del Casale

Accommodation is best found in central Brindisi, just a short drive from the church. For a classic waterfront stay, consider Grande Albergo Internazionale, offering historic charm and views across the harbor. Travelers seeking modern comfort might choose Hotel Executive Inn, conveniently located near shops and restaurants. Another reliable option is Hotel Orientale, which provides easy access to Brindisi’s main sights.

Is St. Maria del Casale Worth Visiting?

St. Maria del Casale is unquestionably worth visiting, especially for travelers interested in medieval architecture and fresco art. Its unique façade, remarkable 14th-century paintings, and peaceful cloister make it one of Brindisi’s most atmospheric religious sites. Its convenient location near the airport adds to its appeal, making it an ideal first or last stop in the city.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (199)

Chiesa rettoria Santa Maria al Casale in Contrada Baroncino, Brindisi, sits just outside the city near the airport and offers a pale stone exterior combining Romanesque and Gothic lines with a decorated portal; visitors praise its medieval Apulian character and quiet, photogenic setting, note the interior houses notable Byzantine-style 14th-century frescoes though it can be closed at times, and there is free entry and parking with opening hours generally 8:00 AM–8:00 PM daily.

Dejan Braki

2 years ago

"This was our first stop in Brindisi, as we were entering it from north. This beautiful early 14 c Church stands literally by the airport fencebehind, just after the rental car park. Probably the strangest location for a Church I've ever seen. Santa Maria del Casale was built in early 14 c in a Romanesque style with some early Gothic features that were coming in style. Allegedly it was built on a spot where St. Francis made a stop on his way back from the Holy Land, no airport around these days :-)nThe interior hides beautiful 14c Byzantine style frescoes. We were the only visitors which added to our impression. Free entry and parking in front, do come and visit..."

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Ger Carter

2 years ago

"Busy but clean. Shopping area small"

Richard Meadmore

7 years ago

"Will worth dropping into while your at the airport"

FAQs for Visiting St. Maria del Casale

Opening hours vary, so it’s best to check locally or with tourist information before planning your visit.

The church is often free to enter, though some exhibitions may have a small charge.

Photography is generally allowed without flash, but rules may change depending on conservation work.

Taxi services from central Brindisi are the easiest option if you’re not driving.

Access may occasionally be restricted, depending on events or restoration.

Nearby Attractions to St. Maria del Casale

Castello Alfonsino: A dramatic sea fortress on Sant’Andrea Island with sweeping coastal views.
Castello Svevo di Brindisi: A medieval stronghold in the city with imposing towers and historic rooms.
Brindisi Cathedral: A serene Romanesque cathedral set on a peaceful square in the old town.
Archaeological Museum Ribezzo: A well-curated museum showcasing artifacts from the region’s ancient past.
Monument to the Italian Sailor: A striking harbor monument offering panoramic views over the waterfront.

The Santa Maria del Casale appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Brindisi!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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