Standing before the Chiesa parrocchiale dei Santi Chiara e Francesco in Milan, one might not immediately grasp the layers of history interwoven into its very foundation. This church isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to faith and community.
Let’s delve into its past. The parish of Santi Chiara e Francesco has roots stretching back to December 23 1609. It was initially dedicated to San Giorgio. This dedication lasted until 1983.
The parish appears in records of pastoral visits. These visits were made by Milan’s archbishops. They also included delegates in the Pieve di Locate during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Fast forward to the late 18th century. Records show the parish of San Giorgio owned a small plot of land. It was about 0.16 pertiche. A count between 1779 and 1780 revealed 309 souls within the parish.
By 1898 the parish’s net income was approximately 580.52 lire. The church also housed the Confraternity of the Holy Sacrament. The parish then had 275 parishioners.
The parish of Pontesesto remained within the Pieve di Locate. It was later known as Pieve Emanuele. This lasted until a diocesan restructuring between 1971 and 1972. It was then assigned to the Deanery of Cesano Boscone.
A significant change occurred in 1983. Archbishop Carlo Maria Martini established the Deanery of Rozzano. The parish of Santi Chiara e Francesco in Pontesesto was then assigned to it.
But what about this specific building of Chiesa parrocchiale dei Santi Chiara e Francesco that we stand before? Construction took place between 1979 and 1980. The building faces southeast to northwest. Its facade has a slightly recessed central section.
The main wooden portal features a mosaic. The mosaic depicts Saints Chiara and Francesco. The facade is protected by overhanging pitched roofs. The sides have ribbon windows with polychrome glass.
Inside the Chiesa parrocchiale dei Santi Chiara e Francesco a single nave unfolds. Exposed structural elements define the space. Painted concrete pillars support laminated wood portals. These portals hold up the roof.
The interior is simple. Brick facing adorns the walls. The presbytery is an exception. It stands three steps higher than the nave. A skylight illuminates the space. It is set into the roof. The roof is higher here. To the sides of the presbytery are the baptismal font and an altar. The altar is dedicated to the Virgin.
So, as you leave Chiesa parrocchiale dei Santi Chiara e Francesco remember the long history. It started as San Giorgio. It evolved to serve the spiritual needs of this community. It continues to stand as a beacon of faith.