Chiesa Maria SS. Immacolata di Vallesaccarda

The Church of Maria Santissima Immacolata (Our Lady Immaculate) stands in Piazza Michele Addesa in the centre of Vallesaccarda.

The Church’s origins are uncertain. Some sources say that the early imprint of the building dates back to the 17th century, while others maintain that it was built after the earthquake of November 1732. What is certain is that the structure has been devastated by a number of seismic events, including the earthquake of 23 July 1930 which destroyed it completely. It was later rebuilt only a very short distance from its first location, in the style of the original church.

The Church of Maria Santissima Immacolata, much-cherished by the local community, is an essential destination and stop-off point for the large numbers of followers taking the pilgrimage from Baronia to Madonna di Anzano di Puglia. On 8 December each year, celebrations are held to honour the patron saint, at an event attended by all the townspeople - including emigrants from Vallesaccarda now living abroad - who return to their place of birth in order to visit family and honour the Virgin Mary.

Even today, the Church of Maria Santissima Immacolata is more than just a religious symbol for Vallesaccarda: it is also the historical and cultural emblem of a strong, deeply-rooted community that in 1958 obtained administrative autonomy, becoming an independent parish 10 years later.