The Church of Santa Maria and Chapel of San Marco in Atina
The first church of Santa Maria was built in Atina in 1044 on what is thought to have been the site of a Roman temple dedicated to Saturn. The Chapel of San Marco was added in 1046, attached to the church of Santa Maria, to hold the relics of San Marco Galileo.
The Collegiata of Santa Maria was destroyed in the earthquake of 1231, however it was rebuilt several times over the centuries. Major reconstruction work was carried out between 1756 to 1762.
photo – Archivio Biblioteca di Atina
photo – Archivio Biblioteca di Atina
The church suffered considerable damage during the earthquake of 1873.
The Bombing of Atina During The Second World War
On the 4th November 1943, during the Second World War, the Collegiata of Santa Maria and San Marco was severely damaged during the heavy bombing of Atina. Sadly this was never to be repaired.
However, some frescoes from the church have been preserved. One depicts The Madonna and child with San Marco, and dates from the 14th century. There are also some frescoes which depict Medieval court scenes which date from the 15th century. These are now housed in Atina’s Palazzo Ducale.
photo – Archivio Biblioteca di Atina
The Ruins
photo – Archivio Biblioteca di Atina
photo -Archivio Biblioteca di Atina
photo – Archivio Biblioteca di Atina
photo – Archivio Biblioteca di Atina
Photos have been accredited to the photographer / owner.
All other photos I have taken myself – © Louise Shapcott