The Church of the Annunziata, also known as the Church of the Baron, is located next to the parish church of Roccamorice. It was built in the 18th century as an expansion of a medieval tower that was part of the village’s defensive system. Originally, it served as the private chapel of Baron Giuseppe Zambra and, from 1770, it was used for public religious functions while the parish church was being restored. Initially dedicated to the Madonna del Buon Consiglio, it was renamed the Church of the Annunziata in 1770. The church was deconsecrated in 1809 but still retains its original name. Its interior decoration, in late Baroque style, was created in 1775 by Swiss architect Pietro Francesco Canturio. After years of neglect and earthquake damage, it was restored in 1986, though this renovation altered its original appearance with a white-and-beige color scheme.
Today, the church houses the Alberto Di Giovanni Art and Culture Center, founded by an emigrant from Roccamorice who donated valuable works of art and historical books. One of its highlights is the “Pentecost” (1605) by Fabrizio Santafede, originally from the Santo Spirito a Majella Abbey. The exterior is simple, except for its bell tower with an onion-shaped dome and a Baroque portal. During restoration, an independent ossuary, dated 1786, was uncovered.
- Address
Chiesa dell’Annunziata o del Barone, Via Belvedere, Roccamorice, Italy - Web
None - Visiting Hours
Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 15:30 to 18:30 - What to see
Opere d’arte sacro
