Devotional Madonna Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta

Restoration of a devotional XIV Century Sculpture of the Madonna and Child

Restoration

The restoration will be carried out in Monte Santa Maria Tiberina by a team of experts with assistance provided by conservation students.

The wooden sculpture that was originally carved and painted in the 14th century has undergone a past restoration and was heavily repainted, possibly in the 16th century. As well as a loss of plaster and paint layer, the wood is also in need of attention. The process of disinfection and plastering will ensure the stability and integrity of the structure. The silk dress, gold threads, and metal elements will also be studied and addressed.

The process of restoration will be viewable to the public and also be live streamed for those unable to visit us Monte Santa Maria Tiberina. No matter if you are in or outside of Italy, you can witness the detailed conservation process of this important symbol of the Umbrian region.

 

This project is executed under the direction of the State Ministry of Fine Arts.

History

The parish church of Monte Santa Maria Tiberina, is dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption, patron saint of the community. The church was built between the 10th and 11th centuries and is located just a few steps from Palazzo del Monte. It is the place of worship of the marquisate and the neighboring territories. The original Romanesque complex underwent changes between the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, which expanded its structure and also modified the internal decorative elements.

The main altar features a wooden statue of the ‘Madonna dell’Assunta’ dating back to the 15th century.  It is thought to be miraculous by the local population There are many legends to suggest that she has thaumaturgical power (the gift of healing diseases and infirmities).  One example of this was when a villager visited the church on crutches after a bad accident to ask for her help. He was miraculously cured and left the church on his own two feet leaving his crutches behind. They can still be seen there today, one each side of the altar. The procession and Mass in her honor is still held each yearand attracts many visitors from all over Umbria.

For the local residents the Madonna dell’Assunta has always been an important part of the community, her image is featured on the crest of the municipality of Monte Santa Maria Tiberina. It is also tradition that only the women of the village are allowed to touch her and repair her laces and dress.