The Mother Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Cassano delle Murge is the village’s main religious building and serves as an important historical and spiritual landmark for the local community.

Built on the ruins of an ancient Romanesque church dating back to 1348, of which the massive bell tower still stands today, the current building was designed in 1858 by the architect Mastropasqua da Giovinazzo and constructed by the Sannicandro brothers’ firm of Bitonto. The church was then consecrated in 1898 by Archbishop Ernesto Mazzella, definitively cementing its central role in the town’s religious life.

The east-facing façade leads into a spacious and solemn interior, divided into three naves. The central nave is dominated by the large painting of the Assumption of the Virgin, by the painter Michele Montrone, which captivates visitors with its intensity and luminosity. The painted decorations of the nave and the dome are attributed to Umberto Colonna, who also created the medallions depicting Pope Pius XII and Pope Pius IX.

The right aisle houses works of great devotional significance, including an imposing 16th-century wooden crucifix, a precious tabernacle with silver candlesticks, and a reliquary cross containing a fragment of the Cross of Christ. Along the walls hang a series of 18th-century oil paintings depicting sacred subjects such as the glory of Saint Clare, Saint Dominic, Saint Gaetano and the Holy Family. On this side of the church there is also a reliquary containing the remains and symbols associated with numerous saints, including Padre Pio, Mother Teresa of Calcutta and Blessed Giacomo di Bitetto.

In the left aisle, one can admire the elegant carved walnut pulpit, the traditional ‘Naca’ used in Easter celebrations, and various devotional statues, including those of Saint Vincent de Paul, Saint Francis and Saint Veronica.

Rich in art, history and spirituality, the Mother Church of Santa Maria Assunta is today one of the most significant sites in Cassano delle Murge, guardian of centuries-old traditions and a living testimony to the community’s faith.