Sant'Agostino

Sant'Agostino, known locally as the Basilica di Sant'Agostino, is a captivating historical gem nestled in the heart of Rieti, Italy. This remarkable basilica, with its roots stretching back to the 13th century, stands as a testament to the rich religious and architectural heritage of the region. Its Romanesque facade and storied past make it a must-visit for anyone exploring this charming Italian town.

The History of Sant'Agostino

The origins of Sant'Agostino date back to the mid-13th century when it was constructed by the Augustinians. The basilica was built on land that had long been associated with the Hermit Order, a reflection of the religious fervor that characterized Rieti during this period. At a time when the town was thriving economically and frequently hosted the Pope at the Episcopal Palace, other mendicant orders also established their presence, including the Franciscans and Dominicans.

Despite its initial prosperity, Sant'Agostino faced challenges over the centuries. A devastating earthquake in 1898 caused significant damage, leading to the collapse of its roof. However, the church's resilience shone through, and it was eventually granted the status of a minor basilica in 2010 by the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.

Architectural Marvels

The facade of Sant'Agostino is a striking example of Romanesque architecture. Its rectangular shape is flanked by two imposing pilasters, culminating in a slightly protruding attic. The main entrance is a singular portal adorned with three orders of columns, topped by five semicircular arches framing a lunette. This lunette features a mid-14th-century fresco depicting the Madonna in Majesty alongside saints of the Augustinian order. Above the arches, a tympanum contains a bas-relief of the Agnus Dei.

A rose window, added in 1901, graces the facade, replacing a large 18th-century window. Inside, the basilica's single nave is crowned by wooden trusses and ends in three polygonal apses. These apses feature a triforium and two Gothic biforas, with modern stained glass windows adding a touch of contemporary artistry.

Artistic Treasures

Within Sant'Agostino, visitors can discover a wealth of artistic treasures. The walls, once adorned with frescoes by anonymous artists from the 14th to 16th centuries, were partially obscured by later renovations. However, recent restoration efforts have brought some of these historic artworks back to light.

Among the notable pieces is the funerary monument of the poet Angelo Maria Ricci, crafted by Giuseppe De Fabris. There is also a 17th-century crucifix and a polychrome wooden crucifix from the 14th century, attributed to an anonymous craftsman. The statue of the Madonna della Cintola, once paraded in processions, and Lattanzio Niccoli's Ecstasy of Saint Rita of Cascia from 1643 are also housed here.

Other significant artworks include Ludovico Carosi's Massacre of the Innocents (1612) and an anonymous 17th-century oil painting, Flight into Egypt. A grand fresco attributed to Liberato di Benedetto, depicting a Crucifixion, was relocated from the chapter house of the adjacent convent in 1973.

The Convent and Cloister

The adjoining convent once served as the first home of Rieti's Civic Museum and the Paroniana Municipal Library, established in 1865. While the library has since moved, the convent's cloister, dating back to 1605, remains a vibrant space frequently used for exhibitions and events.

The Bells of Sant'Agostino

The basilica's 15th-century bell tower, with its square base, houses a concert of four bells. The largest bell, crafted by the Aquilan founders Giovanni Battista and Domenico Donati, dates back to October 1739. The second bell, the oldest of the quartet, was made in 1535 by Aquilan founder Maestro Giovanni Antonio. The third, from 1845, was created by Rieti's Pietro Benedetti, while the smallest bell, of unknown origin, was cast in 1558.

In conclusion, Sant'Agostino is more than just a basilica; it is a living tapestry of Rieti's history and culture. Its walls echo the stories of centuries past, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the spiritual and artistic legacy of this enchanting Italian town. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone seeking a moment of reflection, Sant'Agostino promises an unforgettable experience.