The 15th century octagonal Santa Maria del Tricalle Church is located in the district of the same name in Chieti. In the 18th century, its cemetery was used for executed prisoners. Nowadays the building, deconsecrated, is being used to host cultural events.
Santa Maria del Tricalle Church Chieti
Useful information
Address: Piazzale Tricalle, 1 – 6100 Chieti. Phone: N/A. Opening times and ticket price depend on the event. (Note that opening times and admission may be subject to change.)
History and description
The Santa Maria del Tricalle Church was built in 1317 and reconstructed towards the end of the 15th century. It is believed to have been built on a site formerly taken up by a pagan temple dedicated to Diana Trivia.
A second major renovation took place in 1879.
The floor plan is octagonal. The roof is consists of a hemispherical canopy topped by an iron cross. The hanging arches under the slightly protruding roof are made of clay material. The building itself is made of the flat brick called laterizio.
The name derives from the site, since it is located at a spot where three hills (tribus callis) meet. The district is also called Tricalle.
Curiosities
Toward the end of the 18th century, the adjacent cemetery came to be used for condemned and executed criminals.
What to see
The fresco in the lunette of the portal depicts a “Madonna and Child”.
The interior of the church does not have any decorations whatsoever.