The church of Santa Maria a Quinto stands before you, an elegant blend of old and new. You might mistake it for a structure from the 18th century, given its somewhat recent renovation in 1770. However, Santa Maria a Quinto has a much older story to tell, one that stretches back to the 11th century. Imagine, if you will, the world as it was then. This church, even in its original Romanesque form, stood as a testament to faith and community. This was a time when the church wasn’t just a place of worship, but a cornerstone of daily life. Records from the 11th century mention Santa Maria a Quinto, hinting at its importance even then. While the extensive renovations of 1770 might have masked its Romanesque origins, the spirit of those early days lives on. Look closely, and you can feel the echoes of centuries past in the very stones of Santa Maria a Quinto. Step inside, and you’ll find two remarkable paintings. One, an “Annunciation” with a hint of the late Gothic style, is attributed to the enigmatic “Master of the Madonna Strauss.” This master artist, active in the late 14th century, left behind a legacy of captivating works. The other treasure is a triptych, a three-part altarpiece depicting the “Madonna enthroned with Child and four saints.” This masterpiece, dated 1393, bears the unmistakable mark of Spinello Aretino, a giant of the Italian Renaissance. These artworks, carefully restored and returned to their rightful place, stand as silent witnesses to the enduring legacy of Santa Maria a Quinto. They offer us a glimpse into its rich past and remind us of the power of art and faith to transcend time.
Santa Lucia alla Castellina
“A sanctuary of art and faith””. You might say that about many places, but here at Santa Lucia alla Castellina,