Time slipped away unnoticed. The sun dipped below the horizon painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. Here before us stands the Chiesa Santa Francesca Romana a hidden gem in Milan. Its Baroque and Rococo styles blend seamlessly creating a captivating sight. The church’s history is richer than its vibrant facade. Built around 1710-1725 it initially boasted a square design. Two marble doors led directly to the altar a testament to its original simplicity.
A magnificent wooden statue of the Black Madonna of Montserrat a revered figure in Catalan Christianity arrived in Milan around 1720. This was thanks to Augustinian friar Ignazio da San Domenico confessor to Prince Charles III. The altar itself is a masterpiece. It’s made from intricately inlaid polychrome marbles its monumental size commanding attention.
The French occupation in 1796 brought hard times. The Chiesa Santa Francesca Romana was reduced to a mere warehouse its sacred purpose lost. Restoration began in 1829 returning it to its role as a place of worship. A campanile was added in 1882 and the facade was redesigned in 1892. The cupola was frescoed by Morgari in 1916.
Cardinal Schuster commissioned an expansion lengthening the right transept. Morgari frescoed the smaller cupola above the altar in 1932. Further expansions and alterations followed after World War II. The church retains some of its original Baroque wooden choir furnishings. The Augustinian prior’s seat still bears the order’s insignia. Large 18th century wardrobes in the sacristy hold secrets. Tiny slips of paper inside the drawers list the names of Augustinian friars who used them centuries ago.
Among the paintings within the Chiesa Santa Francesca Romana is a Pietà featuring Santa Rosalia. This beautiful Baroque canvas painted in 1615 is signed by Carlo Duccu. It shows Santa Francesca Romana and San Carlo Borromeo adoring Jesus. Another notable work is the Madonna della cintura between Saints Augustine and Monica. This is traditionally attributed to the Moncalvo school.
While not one of Milan’s most famous churches the Chiesa Santa Francesca Romana possesses captivating interiors. The ochre and red brick walls contrast stunningly with the blue tones of the frescoes. Unfortunately its lack of natural light makes it a bit difficult to appreciate fully the details. Yet here we stand before this testament to faith art and resilience a hidden treasure waiting to be explored.