Chiesa dell'Inviolata

The Church of the Inviolata in Riva del Garda combines a restrained exterior with a richly decorated Baroque interior. Built around a venerated image of the Madonna, it brings painting, stucco and architecture into a concentrated devotional space.

Why it matters

The church was conceived as a pilgrimage sanctuary. Its artistic programme reflects the patronage of Gaudenzio Madruzzo and Alfonsina Gonzaga, joining local devotion with the work of artists active between Venice and Lombardy.

What to notice

The square exterior contains an octagonal interior with five altars. Davide Reti's stucco accompanies altarpieces by Palma il Giovane, including depictions of Saint Charles Borromeo and Saint Jerome. Pietro Ricchi contributed wall paintings, while the cupola decoration is attributed to Teofilo Polacco. Marble flooring and carved wooden confessionals complement the painted surfaces.

Context and history

Construction began in 1603 and the church was consecrated in 1636. Decoration developed over several decades, including Polacco's work in 1615–20 and Ricchi's in 1640–44. The adjoining convent for the Gerolimini was completed in 1682. The nearby Madruzzo fountain of Moses dates from 1616.