Among the churches I visited in Parma was the Basilica di Santa Maria della Steccata, one of the city’s great architectural and artistic treasures. Unfortunately, much of its exterior was obscured by scaffolding and protective wrapping as part of extensive seismic safety improvements.
Completed in the sixteenth century, the Renaissance basilica is particularly remarkable for its richly decorated interior, including magnificent frescoes by Parmigianino. It is also the magistral church of the Sacred Military Constantinian Order of St. George, a distinction that adds another layer of historical significance to an already extraordinary place.
Stepping inside, I was reminded once again that some of Italy’s greatest treasures are found not in museums, but in its churches.
Next: The Splendor of Parma Cathedral
~ By Giovanni di Napoli, October 17th, Feast of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque
