Near Castel Castagna (Teramo), in the Valley of Mavone o Siciliana, stands the church of Santa Maria di Ronzano. It is considered one of the most important medieval buildings in Abruzzo for its architecture, which highlights the transition from the Romanesque style to the Gothic, as well as for the beauty of the frescoes adorning the interior.  

Its construction can be dated back to the second half of 1100. The church of S. Maria is unusual because it ends in a straight line but hides three semicircular apses: a type of architecture originating in Puglia and not usually found in Abruzzo. The stunning façade alternates bricks in terracotta and white square stones.  

The inside is truly striking with its pillars and pointed arches, three naves, transept and the prominent wooden trusses. The frescoes are peculiar because they were inspired more by early Christian rather than Byzantine art. Amidst the stories of the Old and New Testament, the figures of the Annunciation and the Flight into Egypt are significant.  

Santa Maria di Ronzano also carries a “Stauroteca”, a reliquary cross containing a fragment of the Cross of Christ. Outside the church, one of the most beautiful views of the Gran Sasso D’Italia awaits each visitor.

(Translation by Paula Qefaliaj and Matthew Prisco)