“Sixteen seventy-four” is etched into the wooden crucifix inside Chiesa parrocchiale di Santo Stefano Protomartire. Imagine the skilled hands that carved it so long ago. This church in Triginto, Mediglia has a rich history. Let’s uncover some of its secrets.
Chiesa parrocchiale di Santo Stefano Protomartire has witnessed centuries of change. Its story begins long before the current structure. Records from the 13th century show a chapel existed here. It was under the parish of San Giuliano Milanese.
Over the years Chiesa parrocchiale di Santo Stefano Protomartire underwent many transformations. In 1534, records show a renovation. A century later in 1634, major changes occurred. An inscription on a facade capital states the work finished in 1682. You can still see this inscription today.
In 1749, Archbishop Giuseppe Pozzobonelli visited. He noted the church had several affiliated oratories. These included San Rocco in Mediglia and others. At that time, 912 people belonged to the parish.
The facade was remodeled in 1897. But the interior was in poor condition according to Archbishop Andrea Carlo Ferrari in 1898. He found 1574 parishioners. The church also housed the Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament.
Extensive renovations and embellishments followed. Cardinal Andrea Carlo Ferrari consecrated Chiesa parrocchiale di Santo Stefano Protomartire on October 31 1915. The dedication marked a new chapter for the church.
Following post-Vatican II rules, the altar moved in 1971. It was placed closer to the congregation. In 1972, the parish joined the San Donato Milanese deanery. This change was part of a broader reorganization.
More recently the interior paintings were restored between 1985 and 1986. Ten years later, the facade received restoration. These efforts preserved the church’s beauty for future generations.
Look at the facade of Chiesa parrocchiale di Santo Stefano Protomartire. Giant pilasters with Corinthian capitals frame the structure. A stringcourse divides the facade into two levels. The lower level features the entrance portal. A portico protects it. Niches with statues add detail. The upper level shows another two statue-filled niches. Above it all a triangular tympanum crowns the facade.
Notice the fresco above the portal. It depicts the martyrdom of Saint Stephen. This artwork was rediscovered during the 1995 restoration. It had been hidden under layers of lime and tempera.
The bell tower stands next to the church. It has a square base. The tower was raised in 1779. Stringcourses divide it into sections. Each side of the belfry has a single-light window with a round arch. A four-pitched roof covers the tower.
Inside Chiesa parrocchiale di Santo Stefano Protomartire you will see a single nave. Side chapels open along the nave. Arches connect the chapels. Pilasters support a molded entablature. A barrel vault covers the nave. The presbytery is raised. A flat back wall encloses it.
Several important artworks reside here. The wooden crucifix from 1674 is one. A statue of Our Lady of the Rosary from 1739 is another. Romeo Rivetta painted the wall decorations in the early 20th century.
Chiesa parrocchiale di Santo Stefano Protomartire stands as a testament to faith and art. It has evolved through centuries of devotion. Its walls echo with prayers and history. Take a moment to appreciate its beauty.