Lost in the quiet hamlet of Cascina Regosella stands the Chiesa di San Castriziano alla Regusella. This oratory’s story began in the 16th century. It offers a glimpse into the past.
Initially dedicated to Santa Maria di Loreto the church’s identity shifted. It embraced San Castriziano in the 17th century. Imagine the dedication ceremony.
The story of the Chiesa di San Castriziano begins with Giovanni Giacomo Vismara. As the owner of property in Regosella he commissioned the building of the oratory in 1543. His reasons were deeply personal. He sought a place of devotion. It would also serve the families living far from the parish church. Construction concluded in 1560.
In 1570 San Carlo Borromeo visited the oratory. By 1583 it was described as small yet beautiful. It had a vaulted ceiling. It also had paintings adorning its walls.
In 1638 a significant change occurred. The church shifted its dedication to San Castriziano. This marked a new chapter in the church’s history.
A detailed description from 1705 tells us more. The oratory was approximately 6 meters long and 5 meters high. It featured a wooden ceiling. Its floor was made of gravel and cement. A marble balustrade and a painted presbytery added to its beauty.
Changes continued over the centuries at the Chiesa di San Castriziano alla Regusella. The wooden ceiling was rebuilt in 1884. A new square bell tower replaced the original in 1899.
Cardinal Schuster initiated restoration work in 1943. Further modifications took place in 1968. Marble balustrades were removed. The floors were redone. The altar was repositioned.
In 1983 there were external and internal renovations. The roof was repaired. The plaster was redone. Enrico Belli restored the frescoes in the presbytery and archway.
Inside the Chiesa di San Castriziano admire the Evangelists’ symbols. Look for Saint Gemolo and Saint George. Don’t miss the Annunciation scene. The altarpiece dating back to the 18th century depicts the Madonna with San Castriziano.
The Chiesa di San Castriziano alla Regusella stands as a testament to faith. It is a tribute to art. It is a legacy of devotion.