Description
The Church of Santa Maria, an ancient Romanesque parish church, was rebuilt a number of times due to the numerous earthquakes which hit Cascia and the entire Valnerina.
The north part of the Church still bears the original Romanesque shape, thus on the gabled façade it is possible to see a lion sculpted in stone, part of the ancient porch, while the other lion has been moved to the square in front and today is used as a fountain.
During recent restoration works on the façade a fresco emerged dating from the first half of the 16th century depicting St. Sebastian and the Madonna of the oak, whose veneration is diffused throughout the territory.
The interior presents a 16th century plan divided into three naves covered by a groin vault. Numerous art works are present: the magnificent panel by Gaspare and Camillo Angelucci with wood frame and altar-step of 1547, entitled Peace of the residents of Cascia is certainly worth a look. It celebrates the historic event that put an end to the cruel battles between the opposing factions of the Guelphs and the Ghibillines.
The Church is one of the places connected with the worship of Saint Rita, as it is believed to be the place where she was baptised.