Built in the 15th century, the Madonna del Calcinaio Church is located three kilometers outside the center of Cortona. Highlights of this church are its stained glass windows and octagonal dome. Its official name is Santa Maria delle Grazie al Calcinaio.
Madonna del Calcinaio Church Cortona
Address, opening hours and entrance fee
Address: SP34, 239, 52044 Cortona. Phone: +39 0575 62537. Opening hours: By appointment. Entrance fee: Free.
History and Description
The Madonna del Calcinaio Church is built in a Renaissance style. The church was constructed between 1485 and 1513 to a design by Francesco di Giorgio Marini. The most striking element is the octagonal dome.
The church was built on the site of a former vat used for tanning. The word calcinaio refers to the quicklime that was used. On this tub was an effigy of the “Madonna and Child,” to which miraculous powers were attributed.
The stained glass windows by Guillaume de Marcillat date from the 16th century. De Marcillat had also designed the windows of Arezzo Cathedral.
The Madonna “del Calcinaio” adorns the high altar, which was made in the 16th century.