Chiesa di San Lorenzo

The Church of San Lorenzo, located in the historic center of Marradi and overlooking Piazzale Celestino Bianchi, is a precious example of sacred architecture that maintains a deep connection with the history and spirituality of the region. Dedicated to Saint Lawrence, a Christian martyr, the church represents one of the most significant places in the village, both for its historical relevance and its central role in the life of the local community. The origins of the Church of San Lorenzo intertwine with the ancient history of Marradi, a territory frequented since Roman times for its strategic position along the communication routes between Romagna and Tuscany. The name "San Lorenzo" could evoke the tradition of the early Christian communities, linking the place of worship to its proximity to the Via Faentina, an ancient Roman road. This location is typical of the oldest religious buildings, placed near the main transit arteries. The original church, probably from the early Middle Ages, underwent numerous modifications over the centuries. Historical documents place its foundation before the year 1000, but the first building suffered significant damage during the 1661 earthquake, compromising its stability. Subsequently, a major reconstruction project began in the 18th century, supported by the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Pietro Leopoldo, who visited Marradi in 1777 and allocated 4000 scudi for the reconstruction. The works, completed in 1785, gave the church the neoclassical appearance that we see today. Further damage was inflicted by the 1919 earthquake, which caused the collapse of the apse area and serious damage to the bell tower. After extensive restoration, the church reopened for worship in 1921. The building has also undergone conservation interventions in the 1960s. The current building, covered by a double-sloped roof, features a linear facade dominated by a tympanum, a circular rose window, and flat pilasters. The interior, characterized by a neoclassical style from the 18th century, is airy and solemn, with a single nave covered by vaults supported by imposing cylindrical columns with Ionic capitals. The main altar, adorned with a triptych from the 15th-16th century attributed to an anonymous artist from the Faenza school of Biagio d'Antonio. The central panel depicts the Virgin with Child enthroned, flanked by Saint Lawrence, recognizable by his red robe and gridiron, and Saint John the Evangelist. The church houses a rich collection of paintings that testify to the importance of the village as a center of culture and spirituality. Among the most notable works are those by the Master of Marradi, an artist active between the 15th and 16th centuries, likely trained alongside Ghirlandaio. The Altarpiece of Santa Reparata (1498), placed on the apse wall, depicts the Virgin enthroned surrounded by saints, including Santa Reparata, Saint Benedict, Saint John Gualbert, and Saint Bernard degli Uberti; The Madonna of Mercy, also in the apse, shows the Virgin sheltering a multitude of faithful under her mantle, in a gesture of protection; The Saint John Gualbert enthroned between two angels, preserved in the sacristy, is a symbolic work celebrating the founder of the Vallombrosan order. Many of these works come from the nearby Abbey of Santa Reparata in Salto, demonstrating a deep connection between the church and the Vallombrosan places in the region. The Church of San Lorenzo is not only a religious center but also a symbol of Marradi's identity. Distinguished citizens like Celestino Bianchi, a journalist and politician, and Dino Campana, one of the greatest poets of the 20th century, were baptized here. A plaque on the facade commemorates the stay of Grand Duke Pietro Leopoldo in 1777, an event that brought significant public innovations. Folk tradition also preserves memories of historical events, such as the epic battle of Scalelle (1358), where the people of Marradi triumphed over German mercenaries in the service of Count Corrado Lando. Legend has it that the village, strengthened by the spiritual protection of Saint Lawrence, successfully resisted the injustices suffered, uniting faith and courage in a crucial moment of its history.

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