Consider the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo in Villanova. It stands as a testament to faith and history. This charming church, located in Villanova near Nerviano, holds stories within its walls. It is part of the Lombardy region’s rich tapestry.
The Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo was once connected to the Monastery of Santa Margherita. Back in 1595, it served the nuns. The church is simple with a single nave and a rectangular presbytery.
Step inside the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo. You will see the walls are adorned with frescoes. Faux pilasters with ornate capitals support trabeations. Medallions depict various saints. San Francesco d’Assisi graces the right wall. Sant’Antonio Abate is on the left. Behind the tabernacle, a delicate fresco shows the Virgin Mary assumed into heaven.
Imagine the nuns in prayer. A small opening in the right wall allowed them to confess. The nave’s ceiling features coffers. The presbytery is covered by a cross vault. The floor was recently redone. It carefully repeats the original design.
Now picture San Carlo Borromeo visiting in 1570. He ordered iron bars for the windows. He also wanted the main and smaller altars fixed. Later, in 1596, Cardinal Federico Borromeo echoed these requests. He urged the completion of the main altar and wall decorations. He wanted the church paved because it only had earth and gravel.
Outside, the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo presents a simple facade. A gabled roof tops the structure. A central lunetted door bears an inscription. Three stone steps lead to it. Above the door, a painting depicts Christ. A small bell tower stands to the right. Its bells are still rung by hand using a rope.
In 1735, the small bell tower was erected. By 1761, church lacked certain features. These included relics, a confessional, an organ, a pulpit, and an alms box. A rope was outside to ring the bell atop the small tower.
The interior frescoes date back to 1950. New stained glass windows were installed in 1988. The ceiling was rebuilt in 1994. The pavement was replaced. The original installation system was carefully replicated.
The Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo is more than just a building. It is a place of reflection. It links us to past generations. It serves as a reminder of faith. The Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo stands as a cherished landmark. It connects the community of Villanova. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and art.