Italy in Photos

Piazza Trento e Trieste, 66100 Chieti, Italy (May 2019)

Parrocchia Santissima Trinità

Situated at the terminus of Corso Marrucino in Piazza Trento e Trieste, the Parrocchia della Santissima Trinità stands as an elegant and historically rich spiritual centre in Chieti’s historic core. Commissioned by the Arciconfraternita della Santissima Trinità dei Pellegrini, this late 16th-century church was originally constructed between 1586 and 1587, alongside an adjacent hospital meant to serve pilgrims traversing the region. By 1602, a finely carved stone portal had been installed, and the richly decorated brick façade was completed by 1609. In 1634, the structure was elevated to the status of a parish by Cardinal Antonio Santacroce, reinforcing its significance within the urban and spiritual landscape of Chieti.

The bell tower, built in 1748 by the confraternity, features a characteristic bulbous “napoletana” cusp, an architectural nod to Neapolitan influence. Over the centuries, the interior was enriched: in 1770, Fabrizio De Fabritiis of Orsogna carved the elegant wooden pulpit and confessionals, which remain notable highlights today. A delicate cantorial balustrade, crafted by Chieti’s own Giustino Critelli, further contributes to the church’s refined décor.

Artistic treasures continue through to the presbytery, where Donato Teodoro’s early-18th-century altarpiece,”Incoronazione della Vergine con la Santissima Trinità“, commands attention. Side chapels house compelling works such as Enrico Marchiani’s 19th-century painting of Saint Emidio, protector against earthquakes, and a special nod is given to the chapel of the Suffrage, set within an ancient city wall tower and adorned by Raffaele Ferrara’s dramatic Last Judgment frescoes.

Today, the Parrocchia della Santissima Trinità continues to serve as a vibrant parish. Recent restoration efforts have revitalized the building, bringing back original colours and artistic details, while the church remains deeply active in its liturgical and cultural mission. In the words of visitors, it may be modest in size, but it is “a work of art that encompasses history, faith, and brings peace”. More than a mere monument, the Parrocchia Santissima Trinità remains a living testament to the city’s devotion, artistry, and enduring communal spirit, where every sculpture, canvas, and architectural detail narrates centuries of faith and civic pride.