Chiesa di San Domenico di Chiusano

The Church of San Domenico (Saint Dominic) in Chiusano stands on the mountain of the same name close to the ruins of the Castle.

There are few records to indicate its origins, but what is known is that it was linked to the nearby Castle and the Lombards’ conversion to Catholicism. It is also possible that the materials used to build the Church were taken from the fortress’ powerful walls. Before the earthquake of 23 November 1980, the Church contained four altars, a painting of the Virgin Mary and Saint Dominic, marble plaques commemorating the Bishop Reppucci and the tomb of the Princess Maria Cristina Carafa, all of which were lost in the earthquake. 
However, pictures representing the lives and miracles of the saints worshipped by this community have remained to this day, and can be admired on the side walls.

The Church of San Domenico is linked to a legend that has been handed down through the generations in Chiusano. It is told that a woman, believed dead, was buried beneath the Church, in the place where the brethren were usually given a dignified burial. The woman miraculously awoke to find herself next to three corpses. After the initial shock, she tried desperately to raise the heavy stone on top of her tomb by using rags, wound in the shape of a crown around her head. But her efforts were in vain. When the tomb was opened a few years later, the townspeople found a skeleton with rags on the skull, and understood the tragic fate that had befallen the woman.

Amid the unforgettable details of this incredible story, and the traces of history blurred by time, the Church of San Domenico remains one of the most important symbols of the local community.