San Filippo Neri Church

Italian: Chiesa di San Filippo Neri

A hidden gem in the historic heart of the city

Hidden behind the majestic walls of Palazzo Masdoni, also known as Rocca Saporiti, lies one of the most intimate and charming churches in the historic centre.
With no façade of its own and nestled at the rear of the complex, the church blends harmoniously with the ancient building, considered one of the most elegant in the city.

Inside, important works of art are preserved: in the chancel, one can admire Orazio Talami’s Adoration of the Magi, flanked by Soavi’s Marriage of the Virgin.

In the apse, a Saint Philip Neri by Domenico Pellizzi stands out, whilst other notable works are attributed to Giacomo Pavia and Girolamo Donnini.
Also worthy of note is a highly prized polychrome wooden crucifix, along with finely decorated altar frontals and corbels.
On the choir loft are copies of famous works by Correggio: the Annunciation, the Madonna della Scodella and the Madonna with Saint Jerome, which further enhance the interior.
Adjacent to the church stands the ancient oratory, which was used as a printing house after the Second World War.
Today it preserves three painted ceilings depicting the Assumption of Mary, the Trinity and the Angels, as well as an elegant coffered ceiling.