Collegiata di San Marciano Vescovo

The Collegiate Church of San Marciano Vescovo (Saint Marcian the Bishop) is a place of worship situated in the historic centre of Taurasi.

Although it was not the seat of a diocese, the Church was also known by the name of “Cathedral of Saint Marcian” and also gives the name to the square in which it stands. Probably built in the seventh century AD on the ruins of a pagan temple, it was destroyed by the Saracens and re-consecrated in 1150. On 18 March 1590 the building became known as a Collegiate Church, and in 1745 was rebuilt in Baroque style. 

Over time, the Church has maintained its Baroque aspect and plain façade, partly hidden by the imposing Marchionale Castle. Visitors can enter the Church by climbing the wide steps and passing through the elegant stone portal, topped by an alcove with a fresco of Saint Marcian, painted by Antonio Froncillo in 1997. The patron saint also has a dedicated chapel with a large shell decoration, and is flanked by another three chapels, of which one was constructed in honour of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The artistic value of this church is amplified by a series of alcoves dedicated to Saint Anna, Saint Anthony of Padua and Saint Gerard Majella. 

A place of worship with centuries of history, the Collegiate Church of San Marciano Vescovo links the community of Taurasi to its patron saint.