Beneath Casoretto’s unassuming facade lies a story etched in faith and art. Often called Chiesa di Santa Maria Bianca della Misericordia this church remains a hidden gem. Many Milanese don’t even know of its existence. Yet, it rivals better-known city churches in beauty and history.
The Chiesa di Santa Maria della Misericordia dates back to 1472. Guiniforte Solari, who also worked on Santa Maria delle Grazie, designed it. The church has retained its fifteenth-century character. Its monumental brick facade hints at the treasures within.
Inside the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Misericordia are three naves. Admire the fresco of the Vergine Bianca della Misericordia. It’s attributed to a Lombard master, a follower of Pisanello’s school. His style resembles that of the Zavattari. They famously painted the Chapel of Teodolinda in Monza’s Cathedral.
The Chiesa di Santa Maria della Misericordia once stood as one of three pilgrimage churches. These marked the entrances to Milan. The others were Santa Maria Rossa in Crescenzago and Santa Maria Nera di Loreto. Only the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Misericordia and Santa Maria Rossa remain today. Santa Maria Nera is gone. Throughout the centuries, this Abbazia maintained its devotional importance.
During the Sforza era, the Abbazia di Casoretto thrived. It remained a vital center in the late sixteenth century. Carlo Borromeo, a frequent visitor, commissioned Pellegrino Tibaldi for renovations. Tibaldi was his trusted architect.
Beside the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Misericordia stands a unique cloister. It only has two complete sides. It houses tombstones from the church.
Step inside the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Misericordia. Discover a treasure of Milanese Renaissance art and devotion.