Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie

The Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Scanno occupies the former Scolopi complex begun in 1733. It inherited the title and confraternity of an older Marian church when that building closed in the early twentieth century.

Why it matters

The church records the continuity of a local devotion across two buildings. In 1907, the confraternity of Santa Maria delle Grazie moved from its older church to the Scolopi church, bringing its title and traditions with it.

What to notice

The church's Greek-cross plan distinguishes it from Scanno's more common single-hall layouts. Its clear, balanced interior reflects the educational order's architectural tradition. The building is also associated with the confraternity's processional life in the town.

Context and history

The older church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and its confraternity are documented before 1500. The Scolopi complex, including the present church, was begun in 1733. After the earlier Marian church closed to worship, the confraternity transferred to the Scolopi church in 1907, which then took the dedication Santa Maria delle Grazie. The earthquake of 2009 caused light damage to the building.