Peeking out from the Prijeko quarter, the Church of the Transfiguration stands as a testament to Dubrovnik’s resilience. This church, also known as Sigurata, has witnessed centuries of change. Today, it is part of the Women’s Franciscan Monastery of the Transfiguration.
Let’s delve into the story of this remarkable building. The Church of the Transfiguration has a history stretching back to the 6th century. Archaeological research has revealed that two earlier churches stood on this very site. The oldest one featured a rectangular nave and apse. Its lateral walls had unique niches. These were deep exterior rectangular niches and semi-circular interior niches.
In the 9th century, the church underwent renovation. The facade was reworked and the floor level raised. Two pairs of pilasters were added dividing the nave.
The pre-Romanesque church, built in the 11th century, retained the old plan. Sections of this original building have been discovered. They reveal details about its internal and external structure. It remained a single-aisled structure with three bays. Two pairs of pilasters marked these bays. The pilasters were linked by double blind arches. Semi-circular niches were placed between each set of pilasters. The central bay featured a cupola.
The Church of the Transfiguration was renovated extensively in the pre-Romanesque period. The side facades were remodeled. Double blind arcades were added. A doorway was opened in the northern facade. This provided street access. Further renovations extended the sanctuary. The apse was widened.
Two aisles were added in the 16th or early 17th century. This required removing the walls between the internal pilasters. The nave kept its barrel vaulting and cupola. The aisles were covered by a timber roof structure. The church then had a simple saddle-roof. The facade was redesigned to complete the triple-aisled church.
The Church of the Transfiguration suffered damage during the 1667 earthquake. Shallow cross-vaulted ceilings were added to the aisles. This provided support for the damaged nave vault.
The church’s form was repeated. The timber roof above the aisles was replaced with rubble infill. A sacristy was built. This eliminated the link between the church and Od Sigurate Street.
In the 1990s, the Church of the Transfiguration faced further hardship. During attacks on Dubrovnik, the church sustained significant damage. The roof endured two direct hits. Projectiles damaged the front facade. Restoration began in 1992. Traditional materials and techniques were used. The aim was to preserve original elements.
The Church of the Transfiguration was consecrated on October 14, 1995. It returned to congregational use. Today, it stands as a symbol of faith. It also represents the enduring spirit of Dubrovnik. Its walls echo with centuries of history. They whisper tales of resilience and restoration. Take a moment to appreciate the architectural details. Consider the layers of history embedded in its stones. The Church of the Transfiguration is more than just a building. It is a living testament to the past.