The Mother Church of Grottaglie is one of the town’s most important landmarks, a repository of history, art and devotion. Built in 1372 at the behest of Archbishop Giacomo d’Atri and designed by the architect Domenico di Martina, it stands as one of the most significant examples of late Romanesque religious architecture in the region.

The church features an imposing façade, likely created by extending an existing building. The most striking feature is the central oculus, decorated with an interlacing of plant motifs and bas-reliefs depicting Christ on the throne, the Archangel Gabriel and the Virgin Mary.

Beneath the portico, supported by octagonal columns resting on sculptures of oxen, lies the main portal: a true decorative gem, enriched with refined plant motifs and animal figures, typical symbols of medieval art. The acanthus leaf decorations help to make the entrance particularly striking and rich in symbolic meaning.

The interior: art and devotion

Inside, the church houses important works of art that bear witness to centuries of faith and tradition. Among the most significant works is the 16th-century high relief of the Annunciation, a fine example of sculptural refinement.

Particularly venerated is the chapel dedicated to Saint Ciro, dating from the 17th century, which houses a painting of the Madonna del Rosario attributed to Paolo De Matteis.

Outside, the chapel’s dome stands out for its polychrome majolica cladding, a typical feature of Apulian architecture that lends the structure a touch of colour and brightness.

A symbol of the city

The Mother Church is not merely a religious building, but the spiritual heart of Grottaglie. Its architecture, decorations and the works of art housed within tell a centuries-old story of art, traditions and deep popular devotion.

When visiting it, one can clearly sense the bond between the community and this place, which remains one of the most important landmarks of this Apulian village to this day.