Marvelous isn’t it? This unassuming building before us is the Chiesa dell’Annunciazione in Camposanto. It hides a rich history. A history intertwined with the Duomo itself.
The Chiesa dell’Annunciazione wasn’t always here in this quiet corner. Originally a 15th-century church dedicated to the Madonna. It stood within a cemetery. This cemetery bordered the Duomo’s apse in 1395. A miraculous healing changed everything. A miraculous healing in front of a bas-relief depicting the Annunciation. This bas-relief was within the cemetery. The church. Designed by Guiniforte Solari. Took on its current name.
The 16th century saw changes. A farmhouse was added. This farmhouse served the Duomo’s construction site. When the cemetery closed the church became the chapel for the Fabbrica del Duomo workers. The workers who built and maintained the magnificent Duomo.
Archbishop Federico Borromeo ordered a complete reconstruction. This reconstruction began in 1616. It was completed thanks to architect Aurelio Trezzi. The church we see today mostly dates to renovations in 1740. A cupola was added then. In 1846 it was incorporated into the Palazzo della Fabbrica del Duomo.
Notice the lack of a distinct facade. The church is fully integrated into the Palazzo. Look closely. You’ll see an old clock on the palace facade. This recalls the church’s original clock. The church was even known as “relogii” or “of the clock”. You enter through a portico. A portico with three arches. It opens behind the Duomo’s apse.
Inside are two octagonal spaces. A larger nave with a cupola. The cupola is lit by large windows. There are side chapels too. Then there’s the apse. It’s preceded by a round arch. The main altar is here. The main altar holds a large marble bas-relief. It depicts the Annunciation. Cardinal Federico Borromeo commissioned this piece. It was originally meant for the Duomo’s side door. It now resides in the church. A remarkable detail is this bas-relief’s reputed miraculous power. It is said a cripple was miraculously healed while praying before it. The two side altars are dedicated to Saints Narbore and Felice and to St. Anthony of Padua.
The organ is a Mascioni opus 327. Built in 1914 it’s a beautiful instrument. It has 9 stops across two manuals and pedals. It’s entirely enclosed within its expressive case.
The Chiesa dell’Annunciazione. A hidden gem. It’s a testament to faith perseverance and the enduring legacy of Milan’s architectural and religious history. A truly marvelous place.