It stands in the heart of the historic center and was built in the second half of the 16th century on the foundations of a pre-existing small church. Furthermore, it is the first and oldest Collegiate Church of the Diocese of Mileto... #tuttitaly
The Mother Church of S. Giorgio Martire is a splendid building in the heart of the historic center of Pizzo, dating back to the second half of the 16th century. Built on the foundations of a previous church, it is the first and oldest Collegiate Church of the Diocese of Mileto. Consecrated solemnly in 1587 and dedicated to the Virgin Mary and St. George, the Church boasts a baroque facade with a magnificent marble portal created by the sculptor Fontana.
The portal is enriched with a relief of St. George on horseback defeating the dragon, with the princess and a tower on the rock in the background. The coats of arms of De Mendoza and the city adorn the facade.
Despite being severely damaged by earthquakes over the centuries, the Church has undergone several reconstructions.
Originally equipped with two tall bell towers, these were later modified for safety reasons. The spacious and majestic space features a Latin cross plan with a central altar decorated in polychrome marbles from the 19th century. Numerous finely crafted marble statues enrich the interior, including St. Anthony of Padua, the Madonna with Child, St. John the Baptist, and St. Catherine of Alexandria, works by renowned artists of the 16th century.
The Church is a place of great historical and artistic value, rich in artworks that testify to the devotion and beauty of sacred art over the centuries.
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