Chiesa di Santa Maria Nuova (Church of Santa Maria Nuova), Perugia

The Church of Santa Maria Nuova, nestled in Perugia's Porta Sole district along Pinturicchio Street (Via Pinturicchio), is a historical gem with roots stretching back to the 13th century. Originally built on the site of a Benedictine monastic complex documented as early as 1285, the church has undergone significant transformations over the centuries, evolving in both form and function.

The original Gothic complex featured a centrally placed church flanked by monastic buildings, with remnants like a pointed arch portal and two arches still visible. Damaged in 1372 during the Citadel of Porta Sole's construction, it was restored after the fortress's destruction in 1375. By 1404, the Silvestrini monks expanded it, adding a three-nave structure, a heptagonal apse, side chapels, and a large sacristy.

In the 15th century, Andrea Fortebraccio’s sponsorship earned the church the name "Nuova." After the 1540 Salt War, Pope Paul III moved the Servite Order to Santa Maria Nuova, bringing artworks and elements from the demolished Santa Maria dei Servi. The convent was expanded with cells, a refectory, a library, and a garden. Renovations in 1568 adapted the church to the Counter-Reformation style, adding Corinthian pillars, a vaulted roof, a double staircase, and a fountain, shaping its present architectural character.

The bell tower, added in 1644, may reflect a design by Galeazzo Alessi. During the Napoleonic campaigns of 1797, many artworks were taken, some never returned, and further pieces were claimed as state property after Italy's unification. Today, the church is part of the Parish of Saint Andrea and Saint Lucia, while the former monastery houses private residences. The renovated Chapter House, accessible via the cloister at 87 Via Pinturicchio, hosts conferences and events.

The interior of Santa Maria Nuova reflects a blend of late Renaissance style with traces of its Gothic origins, such as the heptagonal apse and side chapel layouts. The church retains furniture and fragments of its once vast artistic collection, which includes works transferred by the Servites from their previous church on Colle Landone.

The Church of Santa Maria Nuova stands as a testament to Perugia's rich religious and architectural history, embodying centuries of adaptation and resilience.