CHURCH OF SAINT FRANCIS XAVIER, Presentation - Ai Voice
Language: English / USA
The Church of Saint Francis Xavier, part of the Jesuit complex, is an outstanding example of Baroque architecture, built between 1708 and 1711.
The church’s original design remains uncertain: some attribute it to Andrea Pozzo, the renowned Baroque architect and painter, while others credit Gaudenzio Mignocchi.
The site itself has a long and layered history. Before the church’s construction, it was occupied by several older buildings, including the Palazzo delle Costede and a medieval tower. Interestingly, even though the Jesuits received permission to settle in the area as early as 1648, the decision to build the church was postponed until 1708.
One fascinating detail about its history is that, following the suppression of religious orders in 1773, the church was converted into an arsenal during the French occupation. It was only after the Jesuit Order was reinstated that the building regained its original religious function, and restoration work began.
Before stepping inside, take a moment to admire the facade. You’ll notice several statues arranged on two levels: below stand Saint Francis Borgia on the left and Saint Ignatius of Loyola on the right; above them are Saint Francis Regis and Saint Aloysius Gonzaga.
Above the entrance, set within a decorative niche, is the statue of Saint Francis Xavier himself.
The use of red and white marble from nearby mountains creates a striking chromatic contrast that enhances the beauty of the facade. The shell-like motifs and other ornamental details surrounding the sculptures reflect the distinctive decorative language of the Baroque era.
At the top of the facade, you can see Jesuit emblems, including the Cross of Lorraine and the IHS monogram, symbol of the Society of Jesus.
Let me leave you with an interesting fact: during World War I, in 1915, the Church of Saint Francis Xavier temporarily housed the remains of Francis II of Bourbon, the last king of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. This precaution was taken to protect the royal remains from the advancing war front. In 1923, they were transferred to Naples.
