“Lost their place of worship.” Whispers from centuries ago echo around Santuario dell’Annunciazione. This church is a Catholic place of worship in Milan. It’s known as Chiesa di Santa Maria Annunciata in Camposanto. This translates to the Church of Saint Mary of the Annunciation in the Cemetery.
Originally, a 15th-century church stood here dedicated to the Madonna. It was inside a cemetery near the Duomo’s apse. A miracle changed everything. A healing occurred before a bas-relief of the Annunciation. The church then adopted its current name.
In the 16th century, a building for the Duomo’s construction site was added. When the cemetery closed, it became a chapel for the factory workers. The Santuario dell’Annunciazione was rebuilt from 1616. Archbishop Federico Borromeo initiated this project. Aurelio Trezzi completed it. Restructuring occurred around 1740 including the cupola construction. In 1846, it was incorporated into the Palazzo della Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano.
Notice that the Santuario dell’Annunciazione lacks its own facade. It’s within the Palazzo della Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano. Look for the clock, a reminder of one that once adorned the church. The entrance is through a portico. It features three arches. It’s located behind the Duomo’s apse.
Inside, the church consists of two octagonal spaces. The aula is larger. It has a cupola with large windows. Side chapels add to its beauty. An arch precedes the apse. The main altar is here. A marble bas-relief depicts the Annunciation to Mary. Cardinal Federico Borromeo commissioned it. It was originally for the Milanese cathedral’s side door lunette. The image is considered miraculous. It is said a crippled man was healed while praying before it. The side altars honor saints Narbore and Felice. Another one honors Saint Anthony of Padua.
Above the entrance is the Mascioni organ. Built in 1914, it has pneumatic transmission. It has 9 stops. It features two manuals and a pedal. The Santuario dell’Annunciazione carries centuries of history. It began as a humble chapel. It transformed into a significant religious site. Its walls have witnessed miracles and architectural changes. As you leave this space, remember the story. Remember the healing and devotion. Remember the Santuario dell’Annunciazione.