Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Pesaro, Italy

Ancient Origins and Early Christian Churches

The Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Pesaro has ancient roots, with evidence of two early Christian churches that once stood on the site. The first church dates back to the 4th century, while the second, built in the 6th century, replaced the original after it was destroyed during the Gothic Wars (535-553 AD). This dual-layer of mosaic decoration attests to the church’s long and rich history.

Becoming the Cathedral and Contributions from the Malatesta and Sforza Families

In the 7th century, the church was elevated to the status of a cathedral, becoming the seat of the bishop. This shift coincided with the transfer of the relics of Saint Terenzio, the patron saint of Pesaro, to the church. The church was further enriched by the Malatesta and Sforza families. Blessed Serafina Sforza, wife of the Lord of Pesaro, Alessandro Sforza, is venerated here, and her incorrupt body was laid to rest in the cathedral.

Baroque Reconstruction, Neoclassical Redesign, and Napoleonic Plunder

The church was rebuilt in Baroque style in the 17th century, resulting in the destruction of the apse, bell tower, baptistery, and porticoed atrium. It was consecrated to Maria Assunta in 1663. Later, in the 19th and early 20th centuries, the interior was redesigned in neoclassical style by architects Giovanni Battista Carducci and Luigi Galli, shaping the church’s current appearance. During the French occupation under Napoleon, many artworks were looted from the church. Of the seven works cataloged as having been taken to France in 1796, only three returned, including Caravaggio’s “Annunciation,” which was originally dedicated to the cathedral but now resides in the Museum of Nancy.