Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie (Anversa degli Abruzzi)

The Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is located in Piazza Roma, in the heart of Anversa degli Abruzzi. Its origins date back to the 16th century, and due to its historical and artistic value, it was declared a national monument in 1902. The entrance portal, dated 1540, is enriched by a limestone frame decorated with refined high reliefs. Above it, the rose window from 1585 bears the coats of arms of the noble Di Sangro family and the municipality of Anversa. Inside, the church features three naves, separated by cylindrical stone columns. In the rectangular apse, there is the statue of San Rocco, made in 1530, along with a precious wooden tabernacle from the 16th century, the work of master Picchi of Pescasseroli, carved in the shape of a small temple. One of the most important elements of the church was the Triptych of Anversa, a 16th-century tempera on panel, attributed to an anonymous artist from the Florentine or Marche school. The painting, which depicted the Coronation of the Virgin with saints, comes from the comital chapel of San Michele Arcangelo of the Norman Castle. Unfortunately, the original work was stolen in 1981, but today it is possible to admire a faithful reproduction. The dominant colors of the triptych, dark red and green, along with the golden background, give the work a solemn and evocative aura. This church represents an important example of Renaissance art and architecture in Abruzzo, keeping the history of Anversa degli Abruzzi alive through the centuries.