ChurcesIn the heart of the Rione Colli di Fontanelle, the Church of the Nativity of Mary is one of the most beloved religious and cultural symbols of Sant’Agnello.
Whether arriving on foot or by car, the visual impact is immediate: its majolica-tiled domes, with their vibrant reflections, stand out against the sky and coastal landscape.
Church of the Nativity of Mary: origins and architecture
The church’s origins date back to the 19th century, when the local inhabitants would gather in a small chapel dedicated to the Nativity of Mary.
In 1883, thanks to the commitment of Comm. Francesco Saverio Ciampa and the design by Neapolitan architect Alfonso di Gennaro, construction of the new building began and was completed in 1890.
The architectural style is Baroque, with a single nave and an elegant façade decorated with pilasters and stucco friezes. The two twin bell towers, adorned with green and yellow majolica tiles, are visible even from a distance.
Inside, the central element is the painting of the Nativity of the Virgin above the main altar—an anonymous work, yet deeply evocative.
A recent restoration has brought back the church’s original colors, revealing all of its beauty and spiritual atmosphere.
A panoramic view over Colli di Fontanelle
The church’s scenic position, suspended between sky and sea, offers a breathtaking view over the Gulf of Naples. The setting conveys a sense of peace, perfect for moments of reflection, spirituality, and silence.
Visiting the Church of the Nativity of Mary means immersing yourself in an oasis of beauty and faith—an unmissable stop for anyone exploring Sant’Agnello.
