CHIESA DI SAN GAETANO
Latest page update: 4 December 2024
CHIESA DI SAN GAETANO
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Constructed: 19th century
Location: Piazza Medaglia d’Oro, Forio
The Chiesa di San Gaetano is the dominant presence in Piazza Medaglia d’Oro. Its colourful dome rises high above the piazza creating a landmark presence. The earlier 17th c church, with its proximity to the water front, served the community of mariners and their families. The dome was originally decorated with images of sailing ships of the time. However, it was completely reconstructed in 1857 and this is the structure we see today. The façade is original and is approached by an unusual double staircase.
The interior is a Latin Cross with wide transept and is well lit by large windows. The pavement of ceramic tiles in blue and yellow creates a pretty interior, which is undergoing re-painting. The altar near the entrance is 18th c in polychrome marble and stucco by an unknown craftsman.
There is a charming painting of the Patron Saint of Ischia, St. John Joseph with the Christ Child, set in an attractive frame, painted by the prolific local artist Alfonso di Spigna (1697 – 1785). Two frescoes by an unknown artist decorate the walls of the entrance – the one on the right depicts the Madonna with the souls in Purgatory and on the other wall, the Madonna and Child.
Location: Piazza Medaglia d’Oro, Forio
The Chiesa di San Gaetano is the dominant presence in Piazza Medaglia d’Oro. Its colourful dome rises high above the piazza creating a landmark presence. The earlier 17th c church, with its proximity to the water front, served the community of mariners and their families. The dome was originally decorated with images of sailing ships of the time. However, it was completely reconstructed in 1857 and this is the structure we see today. The façade is original and is approached by an unusual double staircase.
The interior is a Latin Cross with wide transept and is well lit by large windows. The pavement of ceramic tiles in blue and yellow creates a pretty interior, which is undergoing re-painting. The altar near the entrance is 18th c in polychrome marble and stucco by an unknown craftsman.
There is a charming painting of the Patron Saint of Ischia, St. John Joseph with the Christ Child, set in an attractive frame, painted by the prolific local artist Alfonso di Spigna (1697 – 1785). Two frescoes by an unknown artist decorate the walls of the entrance – the one on the right depicts the Madonna with the souls in Purgatory and on the other wall, the Madonna and Child.
