the church of san paolo eremita
Located in the historic centre, between the old peasant area of 'San Pietro degli Schiavoni' and the fishing village called 'Sciabiche', the Church of Saint Paul the Hermit used to be the residence of the Norman Margarito from Brindisi.
modest on the outside, many surprises inside
This church once was the residence of the Norman Margarito from Brindisi. Nowadays, at the base of the facade some rows of tuff stones can still be noticed. On the outside the church is decorated with some quite simple Gothic shapes. The interior holds baroque altars, dedicated to several saints. Among the works that adorn the altars, the transept and the walls, some statues stand out. For example: Our lady of Mount Carmel with Saint Caterina; Diego and the Noguerol family; St. Paul the Hermit; the Deposition of Christ; the canvas of the Immaculate Conception; the transit of Saint Joseph; the Annunciation; the little canvas of Maria della Concordia.
But don't forget to check out the canvas 'The Visitation'. This is an autograph work by Jacopo de Vanis also from Brindisi. In addition, this ecclesiastical building is covered with decorated wooden trusses. The nave and the apse are decorated with new frescoes and baroque decorations with flowers carved on pillars.
madonna of the earthquake
Inside the church there is a macenula representation of the 'Immaculate Virgin', also called la Madonna del Terremoto, the Madonna of the Earthquake. The Brindisini believe the Madonna to have worked a miracle, saving the city from an earthquake in the year 1743. The story says that the statue was found at the entrance to the church with open hands as if to stop the earthquake. Over the centuries, women donated many many wedding dresses to the Virgin, as a sign of devotion. Depending on the time of year or holidays, the statue gets dressed with different wedding dresses.
how to get there
This church is located in the heart of the historic city center and is best accessible on foot during a city walk. The church is publicly accessible but
closed on Wednesdays. Normally, the church is open on Mondays from 3 PM -7PM and from Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Times may vary depending the season and on holidays.
