The Church of St. Charles Borromeo in Carloforte, standing proudly behind the bustling square, is a testament to the city's rich history and devotion. 🏛️ Engraved with the words "Divo Carolo" in honor of the king, its neoclassical facade exudes elegance and reverence. 🕊️ Built in 1775 through the collaboration of local labor and the Duke of San Pietro, this church has been a cornerstone of the community for centuries. ⛪ The addition of a recessed bell tower in 1797 added to its grandeur, though it's not without its tales - a ship-salvaged bell met its end on St. Peter's Day in 1909. 🛳️
Inside, the church holds treasures of both art and history. 🎨 The Cappella della Pietà houses the remains of esteemed figures like Don Gabriele Pagani, immortalized in a stunning mosaic by artist D'Urso. 🌟 The presbytery boasts a painting of Saint Charles adoring the Virgin Mary, a gift from the Savoyards, while statues and stones from Tabarca and Tunisia symbolize the community's enduring faith and connection to their homeland. 🗝️🌍
For decades, this church served as the spiritual center of Carloforte, a place where the entire community gathered in celebration and reflection. ⛪ However, as the city grew, a new church dedicated to Saint Peter was erected to accommodate the expanding population. 🌿 Despite this evolution, the Church of St. Charles Borromeo remains a sacred symbol of tradition, faith, and unity for the people of Carloforte. 🌺🙏