Nestled in the heart of Orsomarso, a quaint town in the province of Cosenza, Calabria, Southern Italy, stands the Church of The Most Holy Savior (Santissimo Salvatore). This imposing structure, with its rich history and unique architectural features, is a testament to the town’s vibrant past and a beacon of its cultural heritage. The church’s beauty is best appreciated from Aldo Moro Square or the bed of the Porta la Terra, where its grandeur is fully revealed.
Location
Orsomarso, the home of the Church of The Most Holy Savior, is a town steeped in history. The town is situated under Mount Simara, perched along the slopes of the valley carved by the Argentino River. Surrounded by towering mountain peaks and dotted with intriguing architectural features, Orsomarso is a testament to an ancient history. The town is first mentioned in a document from the bishop of Policastro dating back to the 10th century. However, it is believed that the area where the Clock Tower, the castle, and the former convent stand dates back to the time of the Roman conquest of Calabria. When walking along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, climbing the town’s main street, we meet a small square dedicated to Saint Anne, the most venerated holy figure in Orsomarso, whose statue has in fact been housed inside the Church of the Most Holy Savior.
Architecture
The Church of The Most Holy Savior is a marvel of architectural design. Built with a single nave, it features a double-pitched roof and double entrance, a design that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The bell tower, one of Orsomarso’s most beautiful monuments, is a clear example of medieval design. It presents a superposition of numerous geometric shapes: square at the base, octagonal at the first level, cylindrical at the bell compartment, and hemispherical at the top. This unique design adds to the church’s distinct character and charm.
Interior Features
Stepping inside the church, one is greeted by the presbytery, located at the top of a valuable local stone staircase. This feature adds a sense of grandeur to the church’s interior. One of the church’s most notable features is the Romanesque stone portal from the 11th century, a beautiful artistic testimony left by the Monastic Eparchy of Mercurion. Fragments of this portal are visible on the entrance door of the sacristy, including an elegant twisted column and a capital decorated with ivy leaves in relief.
Historical Significance
The Church of The Most Holy Savior holds a significant place in the history of Orsomarso. The town’s history is closely tied to what some call the “re-Hellenization” of Calabria, a wave of migration of Eastern monks that began in the late 6th century AD. This period coincided with the advance of Islam in Asia Minor and Egypt and the iconoclastic persecution of the Eastern emperors. The greatest splendor and diffusion of Greek monasticism occurred around the 10th century and affected a vast geographical area in the Calabrian-Lucanian territory, known as the Monastic Eparchy of Mercurion.
Restoration and Preservation
In 2010, the church underwent a conservative restoration funded by the 8×1000 CEI. The restoration works were completed in July 2018. During this period, the Superintendency of Cosenza intervened with two projects completed in June 2014 and November 2014 to carry out some project work at the expense of the parish. This restoration has ensured that the Church of The Most Holy Savior continues to stand as a symbol of Orsomarso’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The Church of The Most Holy Savior in Orsomarso remains a striking representation of historical grandeur and architectural brilliance. With its remarkable design and rich historical narratives, it is a cornerstone of Southern Italy’s cultural heritage. Its recent restoration has not only preserved its physical structure but also revitalized the historical spirit it embodies. As an emblem of the town’s past and a beacon of its cultural legacy, the Church of The Most Holy Savior invites visitors and locals alike to journey back through centuries of rich history. It stands not only as a testament to the power of religious devotion but also as an enduring symbol of Orsomarso’s enduring spirit and cultural richness. Thus, whether for its unique architectural features, significant historical relevance, or the serene beauty it offers, the church serves as an unparalleled destination for all who are fascinated by the tangible echoes of the past.
Suggested additional resources:
In giro per Orsomarso – 4^ tappa: CHIESA DEL SS. SALVATORE (Orsomarso Blues)
